Killing Kikuyu

[JAPCAP]

I'm trying to get rid of kikuyu in my backyard and don't really want to use poisons. I've smothered some with cardboard and mulch and lay down carpet over other areas. One side of the grass edging the pavers was surprisingly easy to lever up with a spade but I can't dig/cut through the other side of it. Is there a tool that can cut through the kikuyu surface layer enough so I can get a spade in a dig it out?

[EricL]

Hello @JAPCAP 

If you are only trying to extinguish certain sections of your lawn, I suggest using the GRUNT 2 x 5m Black 70um Multi Use Plastic Film - Black cut to the size that you need and fixed in place using Jack Weed Mat Pins - 20 Pack. Please keep in mind that the pins can be recycled after use. This would be the ideal method to suffocate that section of your lawn without using chemicals. Once the lawn under the plastic has died off, it should in theory be easier to remove them from the soil and allow your favoured lawn to grow into that section. 

However, for complete lawn surface eradication, I propose covering the entire surface with Builder's plastic and leaving the surface to sterilize for a few weeks. Once the lawn is dead you can then tear out the dead lawn and prepare the surface for your preferred lawn.

I propose using a Darlac Stainless Steel Garden Hand Hoe - Onion Blade or a Saxon Mini Mattock Cultivator With Fiberglass Handle for lifting and cutting.

Here is a handy step-by-step guide: How To Lay Turf

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[JAPCAP]

Thanks Eric I want to get rid of all the lawn (probably about 10 square metres) and replace with natives and a couple of raised garden beds and a couple of trees. Ideally, I'd like it looking reasonably good by September for a family event 🤞 I thought I might see about getting someone in to excavate it to speed the process up .... otherwise I'll do the plastic .... currently have two dogs though so a bit apprehensive about them ripping the plastic!