Removing a lawn can help conserve water, especially in regions where drought is a concern. One method for eliminating turf grass is sheet mulching, sometimes called layer or lasagna mulching. This approach avoids the use of chemicals and instead uses layers of organic material to smother existing grass.
Julie Long from UC Master Gardeners of Placer County explained the process in detail. She said, “Mow the lawn on the very lowest setting to eliminate as much grass as you can. Apply and spread a 2-3” layer of compost to the area. Cover the compost with one layer of cardboard, removing any labels or tape beforehand. Overlap the cardboard pieces slightly, and weigh down the corners with rocks or other heavy objects. It is easier to use large pieces of cardboard, such as appliance boxes. You may substitute 6 layers of newspaper, but cardboard is much easier to work with.”
She continued, “Cover the cardboard with a 4-5” layer of mulch, such as wood chips or a finer bark mix. This will slow evaporation and enrich the soil as it breaks down.” Long advised that if there is little rain during this period, it’s important to keep the area moist by watering regularly.
For best results, Long recommended waiting about six months before planting new vegetation so that all materials have decomposed fully: “Optimally, it is best to wait approximately six months before planting, so that the cardboard has completely broken down. If you choose to plant sooner, you may need to cut through partially broken-down cardboard to plant.”
To maintain water efficiency after installing new plants, Long suggested using drip irrigation systems: “To irrigate the new landscape after it is planted, it is advised to use an in-line drip system if possible. If properly installed, in-line drip delivers water slowly and steadily to the root-zone of plants, which encourages healthy growth.” She also emphasized keeping mulch over the area once new landscaping is complete: “Also, after the new landscape is installed, be sure to keep the area mulched. Mulch not only acts as an insulating barrier against evaporation, it is also a deterrent for weed germination.”
This technique offers homeowners an alternative way to transition away from traditional lawns while promoting sustainable gardening practices.
