Hi Emily,
I am constantly grappling with the same issue. Over the last few years I have tried a number of ways to add natives to my yard, most solutions I have come up with are a bit of a compromise.
My most used method has been to cover an area of grass with cardboard and leave it until the grass dies back, but of course this can take several months. However this method involves minimal physical work and the decaying grass enriches the soil. If you have patience enough you can also get a head start on weed suppression by removing the cardboard once the grass has died back and allowing the weeds to begin to grow and then covering it again for a few months.
My second most used method it to allow the grass to grow. As I have never used fertilizers or weed killers this invariably mean that a range of other plants grow as well some of which turn out to be natives, typically Goldenrod, aster, and evening primrose. The following year I remove the things I don’t want such as dock and invasive types of thistle and add a pile of logs or rocks to create a habitat corner. I also add a few natives that I think will compete with the grass. Over time it turns itself into a native garden with just a few nudges from me.
Both of these methods work best on small areas but if you use them both, and then remove the turf from a small area as well, you are beginning to cover quite a bit of ground. This multi technique approach also means you can get some quick results from your turf removal area, tackle your mulched area the next season and gradually learn what your garden wants to grow from your slowly transforming tall grass area.
If you do decide to till don’t feel bad about. Your soil health will recover soon enough, especially if you are planting deep rooted native perennials. They will also in time sequester more carbon back into the soil than your tilling released. So sleep easy!!
I hope this was helpful.
Melinda
