Black Landscape Fabric

• 1). Mow grass in the chosen area for the garden site. Take away grass clippings and dispose of them.
  
  
• 2). Place the black landscape fabric over the grass to block out sunlight. This will kill roots and discourage new grass from growing, according to Gardening Know How.
  
  
• 3). Place rocks or cement blocks on each corner of the landscape fabric to prevent the wind from blowing it away.
  
  
• 4). Leave the fabric down for a few weeks, checking under it periodically to see if the grass has died. When it has, you can plant directly on top of the fabric by cutting holes in the fabric for digging seed holes.
  
  
• 5). Place mulch around the plants to hide the landscape fabric, which along with the mulch will prevent the growth of grass and weeds and keep the ground moist.
  
  

Herbicide

• 1). Check the weather to make sure no rain is forecast for 48 hours.
  
  
• 2). Cover surrounding grass, flowers and plants with an old sheet or tarp to prevent the herbicide from splashing on the foliage.
  
  
• 3). Protect yourself from herbicide chemicals by donning goggles, pants, a long-sleeve shirt and gloves.
  
  
• 4). Apply the herbicide according to the directions on the manufacturer's label. Wait two weeks before planting any plants in the garden.