# How to Dig Up a Lawn
Lawns fail for a number of reasons. Improper grass selection, excessive nitrogen application, pest problems and fungal diseases can wipe out your lawn. It is important to understand why the lawn failed before replanting. Gardeners should select grass types that can grow in their climate. Cool season grass varieties grow well in the northern United States, whereas warm season lawns thrive in the southern regions. Dig up your lawn to prepare the planting site for new grass or garden beds.
Things You'll Need
- Lawn mower
- Garden hose
- Masonry trowel
- Spade
- Wheelbarrow
- Pesticide
Instructions
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1
Mow the lawn to 1 inch in height to help you cut through the turf.
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2
Water the lawn for three days. Moisten the soil, but do not saturate the lawn. Moist soil is easier to remove than dry, compacted turf.
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3
Cut the sod or turf into 1 foot wide and 2 feet in length strips with a sharp masonry trowel. You may also use a sharp spade for cutting through thick turf.
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4
Slide a spade underneath the cut piece to lift up the turf slightly. Press the spade all the way underneath the turf to cut through the taproots. Pull up on the turf so that it is released from the soil.
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5
Shake the piece of turf to remove excess soil. Roll up the piece and place it in a wheelbarrow for removal. Continue removing the turf from the yard.
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