There is a projected hi of 108 degrees F today. Its a great time to solarize soil! While most instructions say 'mow the area first', I don't think its necessary at these temperatures. I have some knee high weedy spots. The first patch I laid down plastic after a rain, but now with no rain, I am using the sprinkler to soak the area after stomping down the vegetation. Float on a sheet of plastic. Actually I am using a double sheet, but some instructions say a clear sheet of 2 mil plastic will work fine.
Seal the edges. I am using soaked cardboard, and also some old roofing shingles to hold down the edges. Then let 'cook' for 4 to 6 weeks.
Actually after only one week, the first area that I laid out looks brown and sufficiently dead to reuse the plastic in another spot.
Soil solarization is often used if there are diseases in the soil. But it also is a no-sweat way to clear a piece of your property that is overgrown. Just cut down brush and small trees. I just leave them laying there. Stomp. Water. And apply the plastic.
