Grass over pea gravel?

Our back yard has pea gravel and stepping stones. We want to remove the stepping stones, and plant grass seed.

The easiest way to do this seems to be to just plant soil over the pea gravel, then plant the seed. The issue I see, however, is that, for one there is that black tarp type of stuff under the pea gravel. And, if we planted the soil over pea gravel, our back yard would be several inches taller. That would create issues with the fence gates not opening and closing, and I imagine it would generally just look weird.

Anybody have any input on the best way to convert from pea gravel to grass?

 

I think you would want to remove/relocate as much pea gravel as possible. The grass will grow better if you spend some time preparing the existing soil. It isn't going to do very well if the roots don't have a good soil depth to grow in. I'm sure it would be more prone to scorching when it gets hot and dry as well unless you remove the gravel first.

 

This should also be removed! Rake all the gravel up, if you can't find another use for it maybe someone will be willing to take it off your hand.

 

Thanks for your input, guys/gals.

Having somebody take the pea gravel seems problematic, because I would have to relocate it, one shovel at a time. I hardly doubt somebody would be willing to come get it, and they would like expect it delivered to them.

I live in the very wet Pacific Northwest, so I am not overly concerned about dry conditions. It doesn't get very hot on the coast here, and rain is never really that far away, even in the summer.

The only thing I can think to do with the gravel would be to put some of it under my decking. But even that won't get rid of a lot of it.

The only thing I have going for me is that the stepping stones are easy enough to relocate, and they make up about 25% of the land mass of the back yard.

 

It may not be the answer you want to hear but the pea gravel and the plastic or landscape fabric underneath should be removed. Yes, you could easily be talking about tons (literally) of material. If you don't feel up to the job you may need to get prices to have someone remove it for you.

 

One shovel at a time? Thats why they invented the wheelbarrow.

 

.... and if there is dirt mixed in with the gravel and garden rake will be useful.

 

Do you want the easy answer or the right answer?

I think you know which is which, now you just have to decide.

 

This should also be removed! And for the better solution, you must visit landscaping manager he will help you.