Converting Old Pasture to a Productive Garden

Starting a garden on former hog lot turf requires killing the grass, amending soil, and planning row orientation for erosion control.

Grass Removal

Spray glyphosate (Roundup), wait 2 weeks, then till under. Residue degrades quickly; water thoroughly before planting to ensure safety.

East-west rows on a gentle slope reduce erosion. Grass paths between rows further stabilize soil and don’t significantly affect sun exposure.

After tilling, incorporate compost and any amendments indicated by a soil test. Then plant.

Soil Issues: Pre-Emergent Herbicides for Vegetable Gardens: Treflan vs. Dimension and Why Roundup Won't Stop Seeds; Establishing Grass on a New Construction Lot; Step-by-Step Fall Garden Soil Preparation for Unimproved Ground; New Garden Bed Preparation: Dead Sod Removal vs. Incorporation; Starting a Garden with Flowers, Rock Bed, and Waterfall: Read Books First, Then Plan; Starting a Simple Perennial Garden in Chicago (Zone 5): Top 10 Reliable Plants and Spring Bulbs; Wedding Lawn Crisis: Hire a Pro Now; Dog-Friendly Lawn Establishment in Philadelphia; Grass Invasion in Garden Beds: Organic Suppression Methods; Managing Grass, Weeds, and Fertilizer in a New Garden Bed

Garden Articles

Plants