Preparing a San Diego Yard for Lawn and Tropical Plants: Tree Removal, Soil Amendment, and Palm Nutrition

Buying home with terrible soil, rocks, spotty grass, medium tree to remove. Wants grass, bird of paradise, palms. Asks about stump roots, soil prep.

Sequence

1. Remove tree first—avoid compacting newly prepped soil.
2. Decide seed/sod/sprig; consult local garden center for grass type and timing.
3. At planting time, till, amend with sand/organic matter per local advice, adjust pH to 6.5.
4. Ask garden center about palm needs—palms require extra Mg, S, micros.

Tree Roots

Roots not a problem. May get sprouts; paint glyphosate on leaves with brush to kill without harming grass.