The Most Effective Way To Get Rid Of Grass In Your Flower Beds (It's So Simple!)

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Expanding your flower beds may seem like a great idea until you need to remove the grass in the new area. An effective, chemical-free way to get the job done involves a simple garden tool most gardeners have on hand. An ancient tool that's still a top option for combating weeds, the hoe is very versatile in the garden. Beyond regular weed removal, your humble garden hoe can also help you get rid of grass for good in your flower beds and beyond. 

If you want to discover the easiest way to kill grass in your lawn, don't look too hard. Herbicides can lead to runoff, which causes more issues to nearby plants and the environment. Instead, physical removal works like a charm. You can avoid the chemicals and have grass-free flower beds with a grubbing-style hoe like this alanx 14-inch Heavy Duty Curved Hoe. Of course, removing the grass with a hoe is not possible for everyone. Physical removal can be physically demanding, so take that into consideration. Also, think about whether you will need to fill in the area with more soil or compost after you remove the grass. This method takes with it a good layer of topsoil bound in the grass roots. If you don't choose to replace that material, you might have a little dip down from your yard into your flower beds.

To remove grass effectively with a hoe, try to work a few days after it has rained or water the bed manually first. Dry soil is notoriously hard to work with and will make the process more time-consuming and frustrating. Take it by section and remove the top layer of soil with the grass and roots included. If you work methodically or with another person, you can have the grass cut and removed before you know it.

For the best results, you should know how to sharpen your garden hoe. You want the cleanest, sharpest cuts into the ground to remove every bit of grass root. Leaving behind the roots will lead to further grass growth. Because of this fact, removing grass using a hoe doesn't always work with all grass types. Bermuda grass is more persistent and has deep roots, sometimes 6 inches or deeper. Digging down into your soil can also bring weed seeds to light, which can more easily germinate. If you have time to spare before working in your flower bed, some gardeners recommend finishing this process of grass removal with solarization, which involves using a plastic sheet to sterilize the first inch or so of the soil to kill off weed seeds, pathogens, and more.