Native Plants
![](../_images/smarty_plants.gif)
Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
![](../_images/mr_smarty_plants_logo_web_200w.jpg)
rate this answer
![](../_images/star_43.gif)
Sunday - March 04, 2012
From: Dallas, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Planting, Seeds and Seeding, Turf, Grasses or Grass-like
Title: killing grass on 1 acre before planting Habiturf
Answered by: Guy Thompson
QUESTION:
I have an acre of full sun lawn on a slight slope in Dallas - would the habiturf be appropriate & if so, how do I go about killing off the existing weeds/crab grass before installing? Removing 3 in of soil on an acre or lining an acre in plastic just isn't practical. We're on White Rock "lake" down the street from Mt Vernon.ANSWER:
Yes, Habiturf is well suited for the Dallas area. Check out the planting procedure on the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center web site. Proper soil preparation is the key to success.
I am in the process of planting Habiturf on an experimental plot (600 square feet) in my yard. I killed the existing St. Augustine grass in September using Roundup. I made two applications, the second following the first by ten days. It killed the St. Augustine and the small amount of Bermuda that was also present. Roundup is said to be more effective if the plants are actively growing.
I purchased a special Roundup hand sprayer that produced small droplets but no mist, and I waited to spray until there was no breeze to cause drift. For your acre plot a larger sprayer may be called for. These are available commercially and probably at rental outlets.
The use of Habiturf is spreading like wildfire. I feel certain that you will be satisfied with your results.
More Seeds and Seeding Questions
Planting a meadow garden in Pennsylvania
November 16, 2014 - I live in Saxonburg PA near Pittsburgh PA. I want to put a meadow garden in my back yard. We are building a home so there is no established yard yet just trees and weeds. Where do I start . What...
view the full question and answer
Latest time to mow bluebonnets from Chappell Hill TX
February 13, 2014 - The past few years, my bluebonnets have been overwhelmed by tall grass. I could have solved this by mowing later, but I was always afraid of mowing new bluebonnet plants. When is the latest time I can...
view the full question and answer
Seed planting of Crossvine from Orlando FL
September 12, 2011 - Seed planting of Bignonia capreolata - Tangerine Beauty. I have seed pods. Do I plant how deep and should I put in a plastic bag with a wet papertowel in the refrigerator and let it sprout? ...
view the full question and answer
Care for non-native Centipede grass
February 27, 2013 - My lawn is Centipede. I have created a new lawn area. Can and when should I seed/overseed my lawn? I have Rye in the new area.
view the full question and answer
Transplanting and germination of Pride of Barbados in Adkins, TX
April 02, 2012 - What is the root system like of the Pride of Barbados? I have a lot of new plants coming up in my beds from seeds. Can these be transplanted to a new location easily without damaging the plants? If...
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |