How to remove grass from clay backyard?

waqarrasheed

Hi everyone, I'm looking for advice on the easiest way to remove a large patch of grass from my front yard permanently. The soil is heavy clay, so it's harder to cut and roll up with a shovel. There's also some stubborn weeds. If anyone has experience or can recommend the best tools or method, I'd really appreciate your suggestions.

Thanks

JacobZ

Hi @waqarrasheed,

Are you looking to retain the grass so it can be replanted? Or are you simply looking to remove it?

If you're looking to retain it for replanting, a motorised turf or sod cutter could work well if the ground is reasonably level, although heavy clay may need to be lightly watered the day before to soften it.

If you are just removing it, the easiest option would be hiring a mini skid steer or Dingo with a bucket to scrape off the turf and weeds, provided there is suitable access around the property.

Keep in mind these are specialised tools which would not be economically viable to purchase for one job, but they can often be hired for a day or two to speed up the process.

If you were going to go the manual route, a mattock or sharp garden hoe such as the https://www.bunnings.com.au/trojan-hardwood-chipping-hoe_p3350479 or https://www.bunnings.com.au/cyclone-long-handle-burr-hoe_p3358751 will help cut beneath the roots and break up the clay. If you cut the sides of the lawn to the width of your roll using your shovel, you can then use your mattock or hoe to peel it back, cutting the roots as you go. It will not be quick, but it is about the best you can do manually.

Given the size of the area and the difficulty of working with clay, it may also be worth considering having a landscaping business handle the removal.

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob