As a gardening and landscaping expert, I understand the importance of preparing the area before mulching. When it comes to grass, it is generally recommended to remove as much of it as possible before mulching. This is because mulch will not effectively smother out grass and it may still come up through the mulch layer.
To begin, I suggest manually removing any visible grass in the area where you plan to mulch. Use a garden fork or a shovel to loosen the grass roots and then pull them out. This initial step will help minimize the chances of grass regrowing through the mulch.
However, it’s important to note that removing every single blade of grass can be a challenging and time-consuming task. If you are dealing with a large area or have persistent grass growth, there is an alternative method you can use to further suppress the grass.
One effective approach is to layer cardboard or several sheets of newspaper over the grass. This acts as a barrier, preventing the grass from growing through the mulch. Make sure to wet the cardboard or newspaper thoroughly before applying the mulch. This will help keep it in place and aid in decomposition over time.
Once the cardboard or newspaper layer is in place, you can proceed with applying the mulch on top. Aim for a mulch layer thickness of 3-4 inches. This depth will provide sufficient coverage and help suppress weed growth as well.
Now, it’s important to remember that while these steps will greatly reduce the chances of grass coming up through the mulch, it may not eliminate it entirely. Some resilient grasses may still find their way through gaps or openings in the mulch layer. In such cases, regular maintenance and spot removal may be necessary to keep the area looking clean and weed-free.
In my personal experience, I have found that taking the time to remove grass before mulching can make a significant difference in the overall appearance and effectiveness of the mulched area. By investing some effort upfront, you can enjoy a more aesthetically pleasing and low-maintenance landscape.
To summarize, while it is not absolutely necessary to remove grass before mulching, it is highly recommended. By manually removing as much grass as possible and using a layer of cardboard or newspaper as a barrier, you can greatly reduce the chances of grass regrowth through the mulch. However, it’s important to keep in mind that some grass may still find its way through, requiring regular maintenance and spot removal.
