What Will Kill Crabgrass but Not Harm Grass: Expert Solutions
What Will Kill Crabgrass but Not Grass?
To effectively kill crabgrass without harming grass, there are several options available.
Pre-emergent herbicides can be used to prevent crabgrass from germinating, while post-emergent herbicides can eliminate already established crabgrass.
Some recommended crabgrass killers that are safe for grass include Tenacity Turf Herbicide, Ortho Weed B Gon Weed Killer, Bioadvanced All-in-One Crabgrass Killer, and Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer.
It is important to follow the instructions for each product and consider the timing and frequency of application for optimal effectiveness.
Key Points:
- Options to kill crabgrass without harming grass include pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides.
- Pre-emergent herbicides prevent crabgrass from germinating.
- Post-emergent herbicides eliminate already established crabgrass.
- Recommended crabgrass killers safe for grass include Tenacity Turf Herbicide, Ortho Weed B Gon Weed Killer, Bioadvanced All-in-One Crabgrass Killer, and Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer.
- Follow instructions for each product and consider timing and frequency of application for best results.
Did You Know?
1. Crabgrass is an annual weed that completes its lifecycle within one year, while most grass species are perennial, meaning they live for multiple years.
2. Crabgrass can produce up to 150,000 seeds from a single plant, making it highly prolific and capable of quickly overtaking a lawn if left unchecked.
3. When it comes to controlling crabgrass while sparing grass, pre-emergent herbicides are often the most effective solution. These herbicides work by creating a barrier in the soil that prevents crabgrass seeds from germinating, while still allowing existing grass to grow unimpeded.
4. Despite its name, crabgrass is not actually a crab or a type of grass. It belongs to the genus Digitaria and is part of the Poaceae (grass) family.
5. While crabgrass is generally considered a nuisance in lawns, it has been used in traditional medicine in some cultures. The plant is believed to possess diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties and has been utilized for various purposes, including treating urinary tract disorders and skin conditions.
Understanding Crabgrass And Its Growth Conditions
Crabgrass (scientific name: Digitaria sanguinalis) is a problematic weed that can quickly overrun lawns and gardens if not properly controlled. This weed thrives in temperatures around 55-65 degrees Fahrenheit and grows rapidly in hot, dry conditions. In the United States, it is most common in the Northeast, Midwest, and Southeast regions.
The growth cycle of crabgrass begins in the spring when soil temperatures reach 55 degrees. At this point, the tiny seeds buried in the soil since the previous summer start germinating, giving rise to new crabgrass plants. These narrow-leaved annual weeds then grow rapidly, spreading their branches along the ground and stealing nutrients from the surrounding grasses and plants.
During the summer months, crabgrass thrives and reproduces by producing thousands of seeds. These seeds drop onto the soil, ensuring a new generation of crabgrass for the following year. However, as winter approaches and temperatures drop, crabgrass dies, leaving behind empty patches on lawns and gardens.
Manual Removal And Organic Solutions For Crabgrass Control
One of the simplest methods to remove crabgrass is through manual pulling. While this can be effective, it can also be time-consuming, especially if the infestation is extensive. However, for smaller areas or as a spot treatment, this method can be efficient.
An organic solution for controlling crabgrass is to pour boiling water directly onto the plants. The high temperature will kill the crabgrass, but it must be done carefully, as it can also harm the surrounding vegetation. Similarly, vinegar can be used as an organic weed killer. Adding 20% vinegar to the lawn is effective for general weed removal, but for stubborn weeds like crabgrass, a 30% vinegar solution is recommended. However, it is important to note that household vinegar should not be used, as it can be harmful to the lawn.
Another organic option is corn-gluten, which can be used as a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent crabgrass germination. Corn-gluten works by inhibiting the development of a plant’s root system. However, it must be applied at the right time before crabgrass seeds start to germinate to be effective.
Chemical Options For Crabgrass Elimination
Chemicals can be an effective way to control and eliminate crabgrass. There are two types of crabgrass killers: pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides.
- Pre-emergent herbicides function by preventing weed seeds from germinating, making them suitable for preventing crabgrass growth.
- Post-emergent herbicides, on the other hand, are designed to kill existing weeds, including crabgrass. These herbicides are useful for eliminating established crabgrass plants and preventing them from producing more seeds. It is important to note that the efficiency of these herbicides depends on the timing and frequency of application.
Some recommended crabgrass killers available on the market include:
- Tenacity Turf Herbicide: Contains mesotrione as an active ingredient, ranked as the best crabgrass killer. It functions as both a pre-and post-emergent weed killer.
- Ortho Weed B Gon Weed Killer: Capable of eliminating over 250 weeds, including crabgrass, clover, and dandelion.
- Bioadvanced All-in-One Crabgrass Killer: Selectively kills crabgrass and other broadleaf weeds without harming the lawn.
- Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer: Highly effective, targeting over 250 weed types and starting to work in about 5 hours.
Note: Always follow the instructions provided with the herbicides for safe and effective use.
Top Recommended Crabgrass Killers And Their Features
In addition to the previously mentioned crabgrass killers, there are a few other highly recommended options available. These include:
- BASF Drive Xlr8 Crabgrass Herbicide: This product is favored by professionals due to its long shelf life and high performance. It has the ability to cover a considerable area, up to an acre of land.
- Primesource Quinclorac Drive Xlr8 Liquid Crabgrass Killer: With 18.92% Quinclorac as its active ingredient, this product provides broad-spectrum control and effectively targets both broadleaf and grassy weeds.
- Scotts 49900 Halts Crabgrass Killer: This particular option is suitable for homeowners with smaller areas to treat. It has the ability to stop the growth of crabgrass before it even sprouts and covers 5,000 square feet of land.
Factors To Consider When Choosing And Using Crabgrass Killers
When choosing a crabgrass killer, consider several factors. Firstly, the effectiveness of the product’s active ingredients is crucial. Different herbicides may contain different active ingredients, so understanding their function and effectiveness against crabgrass is essential.
The application method also varies among products, with some available in liquid form and others as granular formulations. Choosing the appropriate application method that aligns with the specific needs of the lawn or garden is important for successful crabgrass eradication.
In some cases, multiple treatments may be required to completely get rid of crabgrass. Therefore, understanding the quantity of crabgrass killer needed for the area is necessary to prevent wasting money and resources.
Furthermore, considering the shelf life of a product is crucial. A crabgrass killer with a long shelf life ensures that it will not lose its effectiveness over time, and any unused product can be stored and used in subsequent seasons.
In conclusion, dealing with crabgrass infestations can be a daunting task. However, by understanding the growth conditions of crabgrass, opting for manual removal or organic solutions, utilizing chemical options, and choosing the right crabgrass killers, effective control and eradication are possible. Consider the specific needs of the lawn or garden, the quantity of product required, and the effectiveness of the active ingredients when selecting a crabgrass killer. Always follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to achieve the best results in eliminating crabgrass while preserving the health of the surrounding grass.
Check this out:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a crabgrass killer that won’t kill grass?
Yes, there is a crabgrass killer that won’t harm grass – Ortho® Weed B Gon® Plus Crabgrass Control. This remarkable product efficiently combats over 200 different weeds while remaining safe for your lawn. Its fast-acting formula begins to work immediately, delivering visible results in just a few hours. Additionally, this crabgrass killer is rainproof within one hour, ensuring its effectiveness even in unpredictable weather conditions.
What kills crabgrass permanently?
To permanently eliminate crabgrass, a strategic and systematic approach is necessary. One effective method is to physically remove the crabgrass by digging it out from the root. This ensures that the plant is fully eradicated and prevents it from regrowing. Additionally, regular maintenance practices such as proper fertilization, mowing, and watering can promote the growth of healthy turf grass, which will inhibit the growth of crabgrass and gradually crowd it out, leading to its ultimate demise.
What only kills crabgrass?
One potential solution to effectively eliminate crabgrass without harming the surrounding lawn grass is the use of selective herbicides specifically designed for post-emergent treatment. These herbicides, such as Image All-In-One Lawn Weed Killer or Image Herbicide Kills Crabgrass, actively target and kill crabgrass while leaving the rest of the lawn untouched. By targeting only the crabgrass, these selective herbicides prove to be an effective tool in removing this invasive grass species from your lawn without causing harm to the desired grass growth.
In contrast to general herbicides that can potentially damage the entire lawn, these selective options provide a safe and efficient method to exclusively target and eliminate crabgrass. With the use of these specialized herbicides, you can successfully control the growth of crabgrass and maintain a healthy lawn without jeopardizing the health and appearance of your desired grass species.
What is the best chemical for crabgrass?
Quinclorac is considered as one of the best chemicals for controlling crabgrass. This systemic postemergence herbicide is known for its effectiveness in eradicating not only crabgrass but also a variety of other common weeds found in lawns and turf. Quinclorac works by inhibiting the growth and development of the target plants while being relatively safe for established turfgrass. With its broad-spectrum control and ability to eliminate crabgrass at various stages of growth, Quinclorac provides a reliable solution for maintaining a weed-free and healthy lawn.
