bobfair@sdcrdcf.UUCP (06/15/84)
You're right - getting rid of established lawn with hand tools is tedious
work! I have used a rototiller to do the hardest part with pretty good
success, as follows:
1) Set the depth adjustment of the tiller for about 2 inches, i.e., the
approximate thickness of sod.
2) Run the tiller thoroughly over the area to be cleared, pulverizing the
sod layer(this probably won't work with some of the smaller low-powered
tillers).
3) Rake up all the loose stuff and haul it away. It makes good compost
after the grass has died and decomposed somewhat.
4) What's left should be reasonably bare soil. You may want to add 2-3
inches of compost or peat moss to improve the soil and add back some of
the lost volume. Then till the area deeply.
5) After planting, a good mulch such as shredded bark will help discourage
the occasional remaining grass clump.
Good luck.
Bob Fairbairn
System Development Corp.
Camarillo,CA