Remove or Smother Existing Lawn
1–2 weeksSolarize, sheet mulch, or mechanically remove turf; test soil pH and compaction before native seed prep.
Field context
This workflow is part of 4 niche fields
Complete guide for native garden conversion — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
Solarize, sheet mulch, or mechanically remove turf; test soil pH and compaction before native seed prep.
Order regional native seed mix by square footage, calculate straw or leaf mulch depth for erosion control.
Broadcast seed on prepared seedbed, roll or press for soil contact, irrigate lightly until germination, hand-pull weeds.
Document species that thrive vs fail, add plugs for gaps, and reduce supplemental water in year two.
Calculates native seed pounds per acre or thousand sq ft for even coverage.
Sizes erosion-control mulch for slopes during establishment.
Determines if topsoil amendment is needed before seeding.
Spaces native shrub plugs added after first-year gaps appear.
Native Seed Rates
| Mix Type | Rate (lb/1000 sq ft) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shortgrass prairie | 0.5–1.0 | Full sun dry |
| Mesic meadow | 1.0–2.0 | Moderate moisture |
| Shade understory | 0.25–0.5 | Woodland edge |
Combine trenching for irrigation, drainage, and low-voltage lighting in one pass when possible.
Match plant mature size to spacing calculators — overcrowding creates maintenance debt for years.
Wear eye and ear protection when cutting pavers, blocks, or running plate compactors.