Preparing Lawn Areas for Mulch: Kill Grass Properly

Converting large backyard areas to mulch for playset and fire pit. Need to kill grass first. Questions: best kill method, remove dead grass or leave it, use weed barrier?

Step-by-Step Process

1. Kill grass: Herbicide (glyphosate/Roundup works but takes a week; 24-48 hour products for speed)
2. Remove dead material: Mow lowest setting OR skim with shovel. Leaving dead grass causes fungal issues and accelerates mulch breakdown
3. Weed barrier: Optional but recommended for weed suppression and surface stabilization
4. Mulch: Apply 3-4 inches

Thorough removal of organic debris before mulching prevents long-term problems.