If your yard looks patchy, tired, or like it’s more weeds and dead grass than healthy lawn, it might be time for a full refresh. Replacing your entire lawn might sound like a huge job, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re sticking with traditional grass or trying something new like white clover, native grasses, or other low-maintenance ground covers, there are a few simple ways to make it happen.

Decide What You Want Instead of Your Ugly Lawn

Before you do anything, think about what you want from your new lawn. Some people want perfect lawns with soft, classic grass. Others want a sustainable lawn alternative that needs less water or mowing, like clover. You might even want a mix—grass and groundcover in one area, a rock garden in another. Knowing what you’re going for will help guide every decision from here.

Here are a few common options:

• Sod: Great for fast results, but costs more.
• Grass seed: Cheaper, but takes time and patience.
• Clover lawn: Soft, low-growing, and good for pollinators.
• Other groundcovers: Like creeping thyme, moss, or native plants. They often need less care than grass.
• Mulch or gravel: For spots where you don’t want anything green at all.
• Artificial turf: Good option for areas with water shortages or periods of extended drought. Especially good if you like green carpet.

Each option comes with its own maintenance and benefits. If you're leaning toward something like white clover, keep in mind it doesn’t handle foot traffic the same way turf does—but it also doesn’t need fertilizer or frequent mowing.

Remove the Existing Grass

Once you’ve decided what’s next, it’s time to clear out your current lawn. This part takes work, but it's the only way to start fresh. There are a few different lawn removal methods, depending on your tools, time, and energy.

• Smother it: Cover the grass with cardboard, newspaper, black plastic sheeting, or a tarp. Leave it for 4–6 weeks.
• Use a sod cutter: You can rent one at most garden centers. It slices off the top layer, roots and all (probably the best option for sod removal).
• Dig it up: Good for small yards, but hard work for big ones.
• Spray it: Some people use chemical herbicides, but this isn’t great for pets, kids, or soil health.

After the sod removal, rake up the debris and level the soil. This is a good time to add soil amendments like organic matter, a layer of compost, organic fertilizer, or fresh topsoil if your ground is sandy or you have soil compaction. You want a smooth, clean slate.

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Plant Your New Lawn or Groundcover

Now comes the fun part: putting in the new lawn. This looks a little different depending on what you chose. Whichever route you go, try not to walk on the area for a few weeks after planting. Give roots time to settle. After about a month, you’ll get a good idea of how well it’s taking.

• For grass seed: Spread it evenly, rake it in lightly, and keep the seeds moist. Don’t let it dry out during germination, which can take 7–21 days depending on the type.
• For sod: Lay it like bricks, not long seams. Press down with your feet or a roller to remove air pockets and get good soil contact. Water it right away and keep watering daily for the first week.
• For clover or groundcover: Follow the planting directions. Most clover spreads easily and fills in over time. Groundcovers may need spacing, mulching, and a regular watering schedule while they get established.

FAQ

Can I compost the old grass I remove?

Yes, but there are a few things to know. Fresh sod or clippings with healthy roots break down well in a compost pile; however, if the grass had weeds or was treated with chemical herbicides, it’s better to skip it. Some chemical herbicides stay active in a compost pile and can damage new plants. If you’re unsure, let it decompose in a separate pile for several months before using it on garden beds.

Why does my new lawn smell like mildew after watering?

That musty smell usually means you’re overwatering or the drainage is poor. New sod or freshly seeded lawns need regular moisture, but not puddles. Wet soil without enough air can grow fungi, especially if there’s a thick layer of organic material underneath. Try watering earlier in the day so the surface can dry by evening, and loosen compacted soil to help with airflow.