no need to remove the grass, but it is best to spray the area with roundup of other weed-root killer. the roundup normally takes 10 days to 2 weeks for complete brownout. it is best to wait the 2 weeks as the sunshine is what makes the roundup go to the roots to completely kill the grass, weeds, etc. also apply a pre-emergent to the area. this treatment will prevent any sprouts from the roots and any germination of seeds present in the soil. you will be GREEN feww for Mny years except the ocassional weed from seeds dropped by birds that may germinate in the rocks...........