Total Lawn Renovation for Weed-Infested Yards: Kill, Clear, and Reseed

South Jersey yard: weeds everywhere, bald spots, Ortho didn't work. Total renovation is the cleanest path.

Chemical Renovation Steps

1. Apply glyphosate (Roundup) at label rate (e.g., 50 ml/gal) to kill all vegetation.
2. Wait 2–3 weeks for complete kill and herbicide breakdown.
3. Remove dead debris (rake, dethatch, or sod cut).
4. Core aerate to relieve compaction.
5. Spread quality seed (Scott's, Lesco, or local blend) with starter fertilizer.
6. Topdress lightly with compost to hold moisture and feed biology.
7. Water daily until germination, then taper to deep/weekly.

Long-Term Success

Get a soil test before seeding. Match grass to site. Maintain high mowing, organic feeding, and overseed annually. A dense lawn is the best weed control.