How to Dismantle Rock Landscaping

Lightly soak an area that has rocks lodged deeply or where rock is surrounded by thick grass, weeds or other plants. This helps soften the ground for easier removal. Just avoid creating puddles, and let the water drain off slightly before digging. If when you place your shovel under a rock and only mud comes up, wait a short while (15 to 30 minutes or so) and check again.

Dig with spades and shovels to loosen the rocks and lift them out onto the wheelbarrow or to another area of the yard. Take your time or you can chip or break tools. The repeated bending, digging and lifting can be hard work, so take periodioc breaks as needed.

Pull away deep grass or use the pitchfork to loosen large sections and remove undesirable and crowding clumps of plants. Pry deeply embedded stones out with the shovel or with a prying tool. Get assistance on lifting larger rocks.

Pry apart sections that have been part of low rock walls or borders above ground. You can also just begin at one end, lifting each rock in turn. If the wall has been cemented or plastered, you may have to use demolition tools. Remove the stones to another location or area.

Continue to shovel, pry and remove stones until the entire area is clear. Reuse the rocks as desired, or give away.

Rinse rocks that you plan to reuse in a different manner in the landscape.