[Arid_gardener] Re: Converting From Bermudagrass Lawn to Hardscape

[Olin Miller]

Publication "AZ1371 Converting Turf to a Xeriscape Landscape " at
http://cals.arizona.edu/pubs/garden/az1371.pdf
tells you how to get rid of the Bermudagrass.

I wouldn't use weed barrier.  It will keep the weeds from coming up
through it but seeds that are blown in or deposited by birds will
germinate and root in the granite, then send the roots down through the
weed barrier.  It's pretty hard to control the weeds without also
pulling up the weed barrier.

Eight mil back plastic under 3-4 inches of granite works well.  Mine has
been in for 23 years and any weeds that sprout have shallow roots and do
not go down through the plastic..  But most "professionally-installed"
plastic-under-granite uses 6 mil or even 4 mil plastic and just enough
granite to cover the plastic with the result that the plastic
deteriorates after several years and needs to be taken up.  Also, any
plastic needs to be outside the canopy of any trees or shrubs.  For
these reasons, an under laying of weed barrier or plastic is not
recommended.

Olin Miller
Master Gardener Volunteer, Maricopa County AZ

"The opinions or statements expressed herein are my own and should
 not be taken as a position, opinion, or endorsement of
the University of Arizona."
===================================================================

----- Original Message ----From: <chbell37 at yahoo.com>
Sent: Thursday, April 20, 2006 5:14 PM
> Chris Bell,  85251,  chbell37 at yahoo.com
> I am looking for information on how to remove existing burmuda lawn
> and install desert landscaping.  ie,  depth of excavation, using weed
> barrier under granite, other?