First, it’s important to pick the right spot. This mixture of Sundance buffalograss and Alma blue grama needs at least 6 hours of full sun to thrive. The grass is not suitable in shady areas or under tree canopy. Additionally, you will want to remove the bluegrass that is already in your chosen location or clear it of rock and other material before planting the water-wise grass seed mix.
There are a few different approaches to removing existing bluegrass:
- Sod Cutter — This method is the quickest but may not prevent 100% of the bluegrass from growing back. Don’t panic if some of the bluegrass starts to grow back with your new grass mix. The native grass will eventually take over the bluegrass.
- Here is a great video of this process from our partners at Resource Central.
- Chemical Herbicide — If you choose to kill your lawn with chemicals, use a non-selective herbicide, ALWAYS follow label instructions and protect yourself with personal protective equipment. We recommend following these instructions on lawn renovation from CSU Extension.
- “Lasagna method” — Layer cardboard and mulch over the grass to block sunlight and encourage decomposition. This is not a quick option and requires planning ahead as it will take a couple of months to kill your existing bluegrass. If you are planning to plant your seed this year, this may not be the best method.
- Solarization — Cover the lawn in plastic to kill it off. Like the lasagna method, this will take time and requires planning.