It gets the job done fast and kills grass quickly.

Having the correct tools such as a sod cutter takes you a long way toward successful completion.

A foldinggarden cartis another option that offers the best of both worlds.

Removing grass lawn by hand

The Spruce / Steven Merkel

You will not be removing just the grass, but the attached dirt, as well.

The more dirt that is attached, the easier the project is.

Generally, the entire thickness of the turf removed will be from 3-6 inches.

Materials needed to remove a grass lawn by hand

The Spruce / Steven Merkel

That thick layer of lawn is easy to slice laterally, but difficult to move.

You will need to call your local utility marking service to have essential underground services marked with spray paint.

The suggested maximum size is about 18 x 18 inches.

Cutting into the grass with a garden spade

The Spruce / Steven Merkel

Larger sections are too difficult to manage; smaller sections do not transplant well.

Place the end of the sod cutter or spade on the intended cut point.

Tilt the tool forward, away from your body, until it is vertical.

Tilting the grass on its side with a spade

The Spruce / Steven Merkel

Push down with one foot.

If the tool does not depress far, step on it with both feet.

Let the sod and sled slowly tilt down flat again.

Placing the grass on the carrying device

The Spruce / Steven Merkel

This avoids breaking up the sod layer and reduces mess.

Finally, slide the grass layer to thetransplant location.

Removing grass manually, with a shovel, is very labor-intensive.

A sod-cutter makes the job slightly easier, as does smothering.

The fastest way to remove a lawn is by cutting the grass into strips and rolling them up.