We would like to apply bark mulch in several areas around our home where grass currently exists. Is there a need to get rid of the grass before applying the mulch, either by lifting the sod or laying cardboard and four inches of soil, as we do when preparing a new bed, or can we just lay landscape fabric and 2-3 inches of mulch and that will take care of the grass over time. thanks Teresa
What kind of grass is it?
I would vote dig it out, but I have a very aggressive grass that spreads by runners. It laughs at weedcloth and mulch.
I would start with where you are? Then someone closer than me will pop in and help.
"Suberin is a lipid that in the outer periderm of phellem waterproofs outer bark. Suberin- impregnated phellem is called cork. The chains of carbon and hydrogen in suberin are so varied that few enzymes from microorganisms are able to cleave it for an energy source. This characteristic gives corks their unique benefits for sealing bottles. Suberin is also in a layer in absorbing roots called the Casparian strip. This layer is an effective boundary essential in the absorption processes. Energy is required to transport water and elements through the boundary into the tree. Suberin is also a major compound in the barrier zone that forms after wounding. Outer bark that contains suberin is often used for mulch, since bark mulch will not be broken down by soil microorganisms because of the suberin. The bark mulch has aesthetic value, but the bark is of little value for providing energy-releasing compounds to soil microorganisms. Some trees store fats and oils as their reserve energy source. The fats and oils are not soluble in water. Many palms store oils. Waxes on leaves and fruits are also lipids." Source
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One more point. If the turf is in the drip line of your tree, and your goal is to preserve tree health - do not dig out the turf. The roots of turf grow deeper than the non-woody roots of trees. In digging out the turf you are also digging out your absorbing roots of your tree which facilitate the absorption of essential elements dissolved in water. Not a good treatment for the tree.
I found the spell for the fungus that will grow on your house if fresh chips are used. artillery fungus
Sincerely, John A. Keslick, Jr. Arborist
put clear plastic down and let the sun solarize the soil and kill the grass. then put the permeable fabric down and mulch. you will need to spot kill weeds with weed killer. fast way. use roundup to kill the grass in the area, put down the fabric and then the mulch. use roundup only in very limited areas and only where absolutely necessary. Ingrid
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