Creating a Raised Flower Bed Around a Tree: Killing Grass Without Harming Roots

Best Practice: Kill Grass First

Spray glyphosate (Roundup) on the grass. It's not absorbed by roots, so the tree is safe. Wait one day, then add your bed soil.

Alternative: Smother with Black Plastic

If you prefer no chemicals, cover the area with black plastic for a month. Most grasses die without light. Remove plastic and add soil immediately.

Why It Matters

Some grasses can grow through several inches of added soil. Eliminating them first prevents future weeds in your flower bed.