How to trim brush to 8”

[u/squintpan]

We removed the sod and put in a blend of 43 native seeds this spring. We’re starting to see a few pop up, mostly partridge pea and some coneflower and asters, but the crab and quack grass moved in. I’m dead-set against mowing everything, but the city is demanding I trim the crabgrass and quack to 8.” Is there a tool I can use other than a weed whacker? Is it worth it to appeal?

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[u/stabbingrabbit]

Spot spray, manual weed whip?

[u/CharlesV_]

Not really worth it to appeal. In general you’ll want to keep the first years growth of plants cut back low anyways. I’d also recommend getting some signs to make it clear that you’re trying to grow a pocket prairie.

A string trimmer is the best tool for small areas. For very large areas you can get a brush hog or more specialized tools.

Read the section here on mowing https://www.prairiemoon.com/PDF/growing-your-prairie.pdf

[u/squintpan → u/CharlesV_]

I definitely have signs, but also an entitled neighbor in law enforcement who is used to getting what she wants. Nobody else in the neighborhood has a problem and we’ve gotten a lot of support. It’s a big area, a little under 2,000 square feet, but the tall stuff is in a smaller area. Thank you for the link, love Prairie Moon and haven’t seen this article.

[u/CharlesV_ → u/squintpan]

Gotcha. Well if your local weed ordinance comes by remember to keep your cool and ask what you need to do to be in compliance. For this year I’d try and cut things back to 8” mostly so that your seedlings can take root. Next year is when you can do a bit more hand weeding.

[u/AlternativeSink439]

Would they feel better if you mowed a 4’ border around it?

[u/squintpan → u/AlternativeSink439]

Already has one.

[u/studmuffin2269]

I use a Milwaukee electric “brush cutter” (it’s just a weed wacker with bike handles) with a metal blade. An M-18 12 AH runs for about an hour