My wife wishes to garden again after a 35 year gap. Specifically, WHAT are the steps and WHEN to do it for a fall garden this year. Selected area is grass and not broken up in the 20 years
we have had the place. There is plenty of sun on this area and water close at hand.

I have 2 bottom plow and disc with tractor. My thoughts is to use the bottom plow, let it lay several days, and then disc the heck out of it. Mix a bit of fresh topsoil and fertilizer and then disc again.
This to be done toward end of June.

What do you recommend.
Thanks for any input.

Terry

I would nuke it all and let it sit for a few weeks before turning the soil and then do a soil sample immediately after so you will know exactly what the soil needs. Once you know what it needs you can add it and do a final turn turn prior to planting,

If your adding soil to it I would mix it all together prior to doing the test,

I agree with Ol Thumper, kill everything before you start. If using Roundup, be sure and get the one that has Glyphosate and only Glyphosate. You will still have to contend with the seeds that are laying dormant when they come up.
Do NOT get the long lasting version (Roundup 365) that has the active ingredients of Glyphosate - 18% Imazapic - 1.6% Diquat - 0.73%. You will not be able to plant anything for a long time.