By Jeff Cole, Colorado Master Gardener

If you are thinking of removing or replacing your lawn, it is critical to make a plan. Removing turf only to replace it with weed fabric and rocks is not only unsightly, but also not good for the soil ecosystem underneath. Here are some things to consider when you plan.

• How much lawn do you want to remove or replace? All of it? Only the parts that are the hardest to maintain?
• What existing trees and landscape plants do you want to keep?
• Make a design. This should be fun! But it will also require some research on your part. Here are some considerations and resources.

Turf

Kentucky Bluegrass is really quite a good turf for the Front Range. However, it does require more water than some of the newer hybrids. Maybe you want to keep some of it. Maybe you want to replace it with an alternative turf that does not require as much water like Kentucky x Texas hybrid bluegrass or Tahoma 31. Perhaps you want to grow something other than bluegrass like Buffalo Grass, Tall Fescue, Fine Fescue or Blue Gramma? Or maybe you just want to remove the whole thing.

Existing trees and plants

What are the watering needs of those trees and plants you decide to keep. Any tree that currently lives in or near your turf will probably need additional water once the turf is removed. Be sure to check out this article. Want to remove your lawn?  Here’s how not to kill your trees.

Irrigation

A typical bluegrass lawn requires about 1 ½ inches per week during the summer. Xeric plants do not need that much water once they are established. Xeriscaping: Retrofit Your Yard can help you plan your new irrigation system.

Mulch

At CSU Extension, we all praise the use of mulch. A good mulch without a weed barrier will improve your soil, minimize weeds and help your soil retain its moisture.

Simple, right? Should you choose to accept this mission, we at Arapahoe County Extension can offer additional assistance. Our help desk is staffed year-round and can provide additional resources for topics like landscape design, plant selection and how to remove your lawn. Email us at mastergardener@arapahoegov.com or call 303-730-1920.

Have fun and good luck.