How to Kill Dallisgrass Without Killing Grass: A Detailed Guide
Dallisgrass can be a stubborn and unsightly weed that can quickly take over your lawn if left unchecked. However, killing Dallisgrass without harming your existing grass can be a challenging task. In this guide, I will provide you with detailed steps and methods to effectively control and eliminate Dallisgrass while preserving your lawn’s health and appearance.
1. Identify Dallisgrass: Before you begin any control measures, it is crucial to correctly identify Dallisgrass to ensure you are targeting the right weed. Dallisgrass is a perennial grassy weed with long, coarse, and upright blades that are wider than most turfgrasses. It forms clumps and produces seed heads that resemble small crabapples.
2. Manual Removal: If you only have a few Dallisgrass plants, manual removal can be an effective method. Grab the weed at its base and firmly pull it out, making sure to remove the entire root system. Be cautious not to disturb the surrounding grass while doing this. It is essential to remove Dallisgrass before it produces seed heads to prevent further spreading.
3. Pre-Emergent Control: Pre-emergent herbicides are a proactive approach to prevent Dallisgrass from germinating in your lawn. One popular pre-emergent herbicide for Dallisgrass control is Dimension (active ingredient Dithiopyr). It forms a barrier in the soil that inhibits weed seed germination.
– Timing: Apply the pre-emergent herbicide before Dallisgrass seeds germinate. Timing can vary depending on your region, but a general rule of thumb is to apply the herbicide when soil temperatures reach around 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
– Application: Follow the instructions on the herbicide label for proper application rates and methods. Typically, it is applied evenly over the lawn using a spreader, ensuring complete coverage. Water the treated area lightly to activate the herbicide.
– Note: Pre-emergent herbicides may also inhibit the growth of desirable grass seeds, so avoid using them if you plan to overseed your lawn.
4. Post-Emergent Control: If Dallisgrass has already emerged in your lawn, post-emergent herbicides can be used to selectively target and kill the weed while minimizing harm to your grass. Selective herbicides containing active ingredients such as quinclorac, dicamba, or sulfentrazone are effective for Dallisgrass control.
– Spot Treatment: Rather than applying the herbicide to the entire lawn, spot treatment allows you to target specific Dallisgrass plants. Use a small spray bottle or a paintbrush to apply the herbicide directly to the weed leaves, avoiding contact with surrounding grass.
– Multiple Applications: Dallisgrass may require multiple applications of post-emergent herbicides for complete control. Follow the product instructions for the recommended number of applications and timing between treatments.
5. Proper Lawn Care: Maintaining a healthy lawn is crucial in preventing and managing Dallisgrass infestations. Here are some essential lawn care practices:
– Mowing Height: Set your lawn mower at the recommended height for your grass type. Taller grass shades the soil, inhibiting weed growth.
– Regular Mowing: Regular mowing helps prevent Dallisgrass from producing seed heads and spreading further.
– Irrigation and Fertilization: Proper watering and fertilization encourage healthy grass growth, making it more resistant to weed invasion.
– Overseeding: Overseeding your lawn with desirable grass species can help fill in bare areas and compete with Dallisgrass.
6. Professional Assistance: If your Dallisgrass infestation is extensive or the control measures mentioned above do not yield satisfactory results, seeking professional help from a lawn care service or a licensed herbicide applicator may be necessary. They can provide expert advice and employ more potent herbicides that are not available to homeowners.
Killing Dallisgrass without harming your grass requires a combination of preventive measures, selective herbicides, and proper lawn care practices. Remember to correctly identify the weed, apply pre-emergent herbicides timely, spot-treat with post-emergent herbicides, and maintain a healthy lawn to prevent Dallisgrass from taking over.
