Solarization and weeding are the best non-chemical ways to eliminate grass and weeds.  

Solarization: Cut the area as short as possible. Use heavy black plastic on the areas you want to kill out. Weight it down so it will not blow away. This will raise the soil temperatures up to 140 degrees. In 6-8 weeks, the grass (and everything else including the beneficial microorganisms) should be dead. You should add some organic matter and slow-release organic fertilizer and sow seed inoculated with mycorrhizal bacteria.

Layering: This may not be practical for larger areas. Mow the grass as short as possible. Cover the area with 12 layers of newspaper or 1-2 layers of cardboard. (we like cardboard at our house) Be sure to overlap the edges, so everything is covered and water it in. Cover the cardboard with at least 6 inches of compost or high-quality topsoil. In 8 weeks or so, the grass will be dead and all the layers will be decomposing to produce a nice seed bed. You can then sow seed. This will not affect the beneficial microorganisms.

If you have to resort to using herbicide, you will want to use a nonselective herbicide. Zaysia is resistant to grass herbicides.

If you have any further questions, contact your local Hamilton County Extension professional.

2055 Reading Road
Suite 500
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone:<personal data hidden>

Good luck,