Question
I bought a house in SW VA and the yard is very old and not well maintained. I have some type of large clover or ivy taking over the back yard as well as many old small and large stumps affecting mowing. First, what should I do FIRST to work to establish a nicer lawn within a less expensive price range, second, what should I do about the clover/ ivy, and last, how can I most effectively remove those stumps? Thanks so much.

Answer
Robert:

If the groundcover is escaped ivy or such, you can mow it until it gives up.  There may be some root removal to eventually get rid of it.  If it is clover, then you are in good shape.  You may sew the finest bluegrass in with the clover and use it for lawn.  Eventually, you can use an herbicide to remove it.  However, it goes well with turf and provides nitrogen for it.  Usually, clover will subside to turf and, generally, goes away in hot weather.

To build the lawn, plant bluegrass.  You can renovate or  overseed, either one.  The soil in the mountains is generally good, especially on an old housesite.

Beware the stumps.  If they are locust (Robinia sp.), there is a good reason that they were left.  Locust is one of the hardest woods in the US.  A backhoe will be the best tool to remove them.  If a common hardwood (maple, oak, etc.) you may consider grinding them below the soil surface.

Be slow to change the yard and quick to learn what was there.  Some very nice old plants can be found in an old yard and used to advantage.  I would wait a year, observe, and then decide what to do if your ideas include big changes.  Old varieties of bulbs, perennials and shrubs can not be bought anymore.  Best to preserve them.

Have fun with it.