Weed killers, specifically herbicides, can be effective in controlling crabgrass. One commonly used herbicide for this purpose is quinclorac, which is available in different formulations such as Drive XLR8 and Quinclorac 75DF. Quinclorac is a postemergence herbicide, meaning it is applied after the crabgrass has emerged from the soil.
Crabgrass is a common and troublesome weed in established turfgrass. It is a summer annual grass that can quickly spread and take over lawns if left untreated. It is particularly difficult to control because it produces large amounts of seeds that can remain dormant in the soil for several years, leading to recurring infestations.
Quinclorac works by inhibiting the growth and development of crabgrass, ultimately leading to its death. It is effective against both newly emerged crabgrass plants and mature ones with more than four tillers. This broad spectrum of control makes quinclorac a valuable tool in managing crabgrass infestations.
When applying quinclorac, it is important to follow the label instructions carefully to ensure proper application and avoid any potential harm to the turfgrass. It is typically recommended to apply quinclorac in late spring or early summer when crabgrass is actively growing. This is the time when the herbicide will have the greatest impact on the weed.
In my personal experience, quinclorac has been effective in controlling crabgrass in lawns. However, it is important to note that no herbicide provides 100% control, and repeat applications may be necessary to achieve satisfactory results. Additionally, it is crucial to maintain a healthy and dense turfgrass stand to prevent future crabgrass infestations.
It is worth mentioning that while quinclorac is primarily used for crabgrass control, it can also be effective against other grassy weeds such as foxtail and barnyardgrass. Furthermore, quinclorac has some activity against certain broadleaf weeds, although it is not as effective as dedicated broadleaf herbicides.
Weed killers, specifically quinclorac, can be effective in controlling crabgrass in established turfgrass. However, it is important to follow label instructions, apply at the appropriate time, and consider additional management practices to achieve long-term control.
