Many lawns are poor because the site was not prepared properly before establishment. Undesirable perennial grasses such as quackgrass, tall fescue, bentgrass, timothy, and orchardgrass should be controlled before grading the lawn. Roundup (glyphosate) applied to growing grass will eliminate undesirable perennial grasses. Glyphosate is a nonselective, systemic herbicide that will kill all grasses that the chemical contacts. Two applications spaced at 4 to 8 weeks may be necessary for deep rooted perennials. Glyphosate moves or translocates downward in grasses to kill underground plant parts like quackgrass rhizomes. Follow the directions on the label for application rates. A waiting period of 7 days after glyphosate application is necessary before tilling or sod disturbance.
As an alternate method, fallowing or tilling the soil for one growing season will help to control undesirable grasses and other weeds. The soil should be cultivated as regrowth occurs. This procedure is not practical for most homeowners.
Grade the lawn so that good surface drainage is provided. Avoid steep slopes when possible. They result in many establishment and maintenance problems.
The desired result in final site preparation is a firm soil without depressions or rough areas. Rough areas are extremely difficult to correct after the lawn is established.