So, you’ve decided those landscape rocks in your yard have overstayed their welcome. Maybe they looked nice once, or they came with the house, but now they’re just taking up space, collecting weeds, or making it hard to plant something new. Whether you’re going for a softer, more natural look or planning to start fresh with mulch, grass, or a flower bed, getting rid of landscape rocks can feel like a big task, but it’s completely doable.

This article will walk you through the steps of removing landscape rocks the right way. We will go over tools, safety tips, where the rocks can go after removal, and how professional lawn care services in Chicago, IL, can help you with the heavy lifting if needed.

Why Remove Landscape Rocks?

Landscape rocks might seem like low-maintenance ground cover, but over time, they can become more of a hassle than a help. Weeds grow between them, they can sink into the soil, and they make planting anything new a challenge. Rocks also trap heat, which may affect nearby plants. If you’re rethinking your yard’s design or looking to switch to grass or mulch, removing rocks is usually the first step.

Step 1: Make a Plan

Before you pick up a shovel, figure out how much rock you have to remove and where it is going. Consider:

• Are the rocks small gravel or large decorative boulders?
• Are you going to use them again somewhere?
• Do you want to sell, donate, or toss them?

Having a plan will save you from doing it twice.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools

Having the right tools can save you time and energy. Here’s what you may need:

• A sturdy shovel or landscaping rake that is sturdy
• Long, thick gloves
• A wheelbarrow or bucket
• Landscaping fabric (if you are also pulling it up)
• A screen or sifter (to separate rocks from dirt, if necessary)

If you have large rocks, use a dolly or hand truck to help you safely haul the rocks without injury.

Step 3: Remove the Rocks

Start by scooping or raking the rocks into piles. If there’s landscape fabric underneath, you can usually pull it up along with many of the rocks still on top. Shake the fabric to loosen the rocks, and then toss the fabric.

If the rocks are mixed with dirt, use a screen or mesh to separate them. Set up the screen over a wheelbarrow and shovel the mix onto it. The dirt will fall through, leaving you with clean rocks.

This step is often where many homeowners call for lawn care services in Chicago, IL, especially if they’re dealing with large areas or heavy stones.

Step 4: Clean and Sort

When you have the rocks sorted out, here are your options:

• Reuse: You can move them to another part of your yard.
• Sell: Consider posting on social media or to your local landscaping groups.
• Donate: Schools, community gardens, or neighbors might be interested in them. 
• Dispose: Call your local waste or recycling center to see if they accept rocks (some may need you to drop off the rocks, while some may offer a pickup).

Advice: Never drop rocks off in wooded areas or unkempt vacant lots. Besides being messy, it is likely illegal dumping of rocks.

Step 5: Prep the Ground for What’s Next

When you have the rocks cleared, your soil might need some work. Years of being covered with rocks could have insulated the soil, compacted it down, and dried it out. Here is how to correct this:

• Remove any remnants of debris or roots
• You will need to loosen the soil with a rake or a dirt tilling implement
• After the soil is loosened, you can mix back into the soil compost or some fresh topsoil to improve the texture and the nutrient level.

At that point you are prepared to either install sod, plant flowers or put down the mulch depending on your new design.

Common Challenges

Removing rocks isn’t always easy. Here are a few common issues:

• Hidden rocks: You think you’re done, then find more under the soil.
• Heavy lifting: Rocks are heavier than they look, especially when wet.
• Disposal: Some areas have strict rules about where you can dump rocks.

If you run into any of these problems or simply want help, it may be time to bring in professionals who know how to do this efficiently and safely.

Conclusion

Removing landscape rocks can be time-consuming and takes effort, but if you want a fresh start in your yard or plan to plant something new, it is well worth it. The idea of doing this may feel overwhelming; however, it does not have to be. We will show you how to clean up your space and make way for something better with the right tools, a plan, and maybe even a helping hand. 

Whether you are transitioning to grass or mulch or planning a modern garden, the first step toward a healthier and more beautiful yard is removing the rocks. 

Let Hernandez Lawn Care Make It Easier

Hernandez Lawn Care helps homeowners remove unwanted rocks, prepare the soil, and refresh their landscape from start to finish. We offer full lawn care services in Chicago, IL, including rock removal, soil prep, new lawn installation, and ongoing maintenance for your yard.

Our team provides the skills, tools, and extra labor to help convert an exhausting task into a streamlined one. Whether it’s a small backyard or an entire yard project, we can help.

Call Us Today for a Cleaner, Better Yard

If you are ready to remove landscape rocks and give your yard a fresh look, give Hernandez Lawn Care a call. Hernandez Lawn Care provides affordable, friendly, and fast service in the Chicago area. Contact us today for your free estimate and let us get your outdoor space looking good again.