Ask the Experts

How to Identify and Control Crabgrass in Your Lawn

Photo Credit: UMN Extension

Crabgrass is one of the most common and troublesome lawn weeds in North Texas. This fast-growing weed thrives in warm weather and can quickly spread, especially in bare or neglected spots. Here’s how to identify, prevent, and control it to keep your lawn healthy.

What Is Crabgrass?

Crabgrass (scientific name Digitaria) is an annual weed that spreads through seeds and tends to appear in warmer months. This hardy plant can tolerate dry, compacted soils, making it particularly troublesome in areas where lawn care might be inconsistent. There are two main types to watch out for:

  • Smooth Crabgrass (Digitaria ischaemum): A smaller variety with smooth stems and fewer hairs, which gives it a “smoother” appearance.
  • Large Crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis): Known for its larger size and rougher stems, this variety is more commonly seen in neglected areas or spaces with bare patches.

How to Identify Crabgrass

Identifying this weed early in the growing season is crucial for effective control. Here’s what to look for:

  • Wide Blades: The leaves are generally wider than most turfgrasses, growing about half an inch to an inch in width. It is often mistaken for fescue grass.
  • Low-Growing Habit: This weed forms flat, broad clumps and grows close to the ground, making it easily identifiable compared to other grasses.
  • Seed Heads: As it matures, it produces distinctive spiky seed heads that contribute to its spread if not managed promptly. These form a star-shaped pattern when seen from above.

Photo Credit: The Spruce

Spotting this weed early in spring can prevent further spread throughout the season.

Why Crabgrass Is a Problem for Your Lawn

This weed competes with desirable turfgrass for water, nutrients, and sunlight, weakening the lawn and leaving it vulnerable to other weeds and diseases. Once established, it can be challenging to control and may reappear each year if preventive measures are not taken. Addressing it early helps promote a dense, healthy lawn, which is the best defense against all types of weeds.

How to Prevent Crabgrass

Preventing this persistent weed is often easier than trying to remove it after it has taken root. Here are some lawn care strategies to help keep your turf healthy and weed-free:

  • Pre-Emergent Herbicides: Apply in fall or early spring to prevent seeds from germinating.
  • Healthy Turf Maintenance: Keep grass dense, mow at the right height (around 3 inches), and water deeply and infrequently.
  • Post-Emergent Herbicides: Use for existing crabgrass, following product instructions.
  • Manual Removal: Pull out small patches before seed heads form.

How to Control Crabgrass If It’s Already in Your Lawn

If you spot this weed already growing in your lawn, it’s best to act quickly. Here are some ways to control it:

  • Post-Emergent Herbicides: These can be effective but should be applied carefully to avoid damaging your lawn. Be sure to read product labels and follow the application instructions closely.
  • Manual Removal: For small patches, hand-pulling can be a good option, especially if done before seed heads form. Be sure to pull out the roots to prevent regrowth.

For homeowners and property managers looking for professional support, Southern Botanical offers expert lawn care services to prevent and control weeds, including targeted herbicide applications tailored for North Texas landscapes.

Keep Your Lawn Healthy with the Right Weed Prevention Strategy

Maintaining a healthy, weed-free lawn requires a proactive approach. By applying pre-emergent herbicides at the right times and following proper lawn care practices, you can minimize the chances of this persistent weed—and others—taking over your lawn. With help from an expert team like Southern Botanical, you can achieve a lush, beautiful lawn that remains resilient through every season.