How To Get Rid Of Bermuda Grass

If you’re dealing with a stubborn, invasive lawn weed, learning how to get rid of bermuda grass is likely at the top of your to-do list. This tenacious grass can quickly take over flower beds, vegetable gardens, and even other lawn types, but with the right approach, you can reclaim your yard.

This guide covers simple and effective methods, from manual removal to smothering techniques. We’ll look at both organic solutions and careful chemical use, giving you a clear plan based on your specific situation.

Bermuda grass is tough because of its extensive network of rhizomes (underground stems) and stolons (above-ground runners). Killing the visible blades is just the first step; you must target the entire root system to prevent regrowth. A combination of methods often works best.

Understanding What You’re Up Against

Before you start, know your enemy. Bermuda grass thrives in heat and full sun. It’s drought-tolerant and spreads aggressively. Even a small piece of rhizome left in the soil can sprout a new plant. This means persistence is your greatest asset in this battle.

Your strategy will depend on where the grass is invading. Methods for a garden bed differ from those for an entire lawn renovation. Always consider the plants you want to protect nearby.

Manual Removal Methods

For small patches or eco-conscious gardeners, physical removal is the first line of defense. It’s labor-intensive but very effective if done throughly.

Hand-Pulling and Digging

This works best for new invasions or isolated patches. Water the area deeply the day before to soften the soil. Use a sturdy garden fork or a dandelion weeder to loosen the soil and carefully lift the entire network of runners and roots. Try to remove them in as large sections as possible.

Shake off excess soil into the hole.
Dispose of the grass in a black plastic bag in the sun—do not compost it, as it may not get hot enough to kill the rhizomes.
Check the area weekly for new sprouts and pull them immediately.

Using a Sod Cutter

For larger areas like a lawn you want to replant, renting a sod cutter can be a huge time-saver. It mechanically slices under the grass, removing the top layer of turf, roots and all. You’ll need to go at least 3-4 inches deep to get the bermuda grass rhizomes.

After removal, you must diligently monitor the area. Any missed roots will resprout, requiring prompt pulling or treatment.

Smothering (Solarization and Sheet Mulching)

This passive technique uses the sun’s heat or light deprivation to kill the grass. It’s excellent for clearing future garden beds but takes time—usually 4 to 8 weeks during hot, sunny weather.

Plastic Solarization

Mow or scalp the area as low as possible.
Water the soil deeply to conduct heat better.
Cover the area with clear plastic sheeting (1-4 mil thick).
Bury the edges with soil to seal it airtight.
Leave it for 4-6 weeks in peak summer heat. The trapped heat will cook the grass and its root system.

Sheet Mulching (Lasagna Method)

This builds soil while killing grass. It’s perfect for creating new planting areas.

Mow the area short.
Layer overlapping cardboard or 10+ sheets of newspaper directly over the grass. Wet it down.
Add 4-6 inches of organic mulch (wood chips, straw) or compost on top.
Wait 2-3 months before planting. The cardboard blocks light, and the material on top decomposes, enriching the soil.

Using Herbicides Effectively and Safely

When manual or smothering methods aren’t feasible, herbicides can be a tool. Always choose a product labeled for bermuda grass and follow the instructions exactly. Spot-treating is prefered over broadcast spraying.

Non-Selective Herbicides (Like Glyphosate)

These kill all vegetation they touch. Use them only in areas where you want total clearance, like a future bed or driveway edges.

Apply to actively growing, green grass in spring or summer.
Do not disturb the area for 7-14 days after application.
A second or third application is often needed for complete control as new sprouts appear.

Selective Grass Herbicides (For Use in Broadleaf Beds)

Products containing herbicides like fluazifop (e.g., Grass-B-Gon) can kill grassy weeds without harming established broadleaf plants, shrubs, and trees. This is useful for bermuda grass invading a flower bed.

Remember, herbicides are a last resort. They require careful handling to protect yourself, your desirable plants, and the environment. Never apply on windy days.

Preventing Bermuda Grass From Returning

Control is an ongoing process. After removal, these steps help keep it from comming back.

Edge Your Beds: Maintain deep, physical edges (4-6 inches) between your lawn and garden beds to block runners.
Mulch Deeply: Apply 3-4 inches of mulch in beds to suppress any stray sprouts and make them easier to spot and pull.
Maintain a Healthy Lawn: If you have a different lawn grass, keep it thick and healthy through proper mowing, watering, and fertilization. A dense turf leaves no room for bermuda to invade.
Stay Vigilant: Patrol the borders of your garden regularly. Pull or spot-treat any new shoots immediately—this is much easier than dealing with a large patch later.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kills Bermuda grass permanently?

No method guarantees permanent eradication due to seeds and neighboring lawns. However, persistent combination of deep removal, smothering, and vigilant follow-up for a full season offers the most complete, long-term control.

Will vinegar kill Bermuda grass?

Household vinegar may burn the top growth, but it rarely kills the deep rhizomes. The grass typically recovers quickly. Commercial horticultural vinegar (20% acidity) is more effective but is a non-selective acid that can harm soil life and is hazardous to handle.

How do I get rid of Bermuda grass without killing my other grass?

This is very challenging. Selective grass herbicides won’t work if your desired lawn is also a grass (like fescue). Your best bet is to manually remove patches and then overseed your desired lawn thickly to fill in gaps, outcompeting the bermuda.

What is the best time of year to attack Bermuda grass?

Late spring through summer, when it’s actively growing and sending nutrients to its roots. Treatments applied then are most effective at translocating down to the rhizome system.

Can I just till Bermuda grass to remove it?

Tilling is one of the worst things you can do. It chops the rhizomes into tiny pieces, each of which can sprout a new plant, spreading the infestation far more widely across your garden bed.

Removing bermuda grass demands patience and consistency. Start with the least invasive method suitable for your space, and be prepared to monitor and repeat treatments. By understanding its growth habits and striking persistently at its root system, you can successfully manage this aggressive grass and enjoy the garden you want.