Grassy weeds in lawns are notoriously hard to control. Since our turf grasses are grasses themselves, chemical controls are limited. A full, healthy lawn is always the first defense against weeds. Chemical control methods depend on whether the weed is an annual or perennial, so correct identification is key. Bring us weed samples or visit our Weed Finder. We are happy to help with identification.

For summer annual grasses such as foxtail and crabgrass, putting down a preemergent herbicide in March gives protection throughout the growing season. We recommend Fertilome’s For All Seasons since its active ingredient lasts for up to 6 months.

Little Barley grass and Annual Bluegrass (Poa Anna) are winter annuals that germinate in the fall and are noticed in the Spring. Hi-Yield’s Turf and Ornamental Weed and Grass Stopper applied in late August or early September before their germination is the best control.

Perennial weeds are much harder to control. Orchard grass and Johnson grass can only be killed with nonselective herbicides such as Hi-Yield’s Killzall The sprayed area must be either reseeded or sodded afterward. Always ensure that the seed you buy is clean and has zero weed or other crop seeds. Orchardgrass is always listed as “other crop” so overseeding with low-quality seed can easily make a lawn worse instead of better.