Lawn weed identification - Ask Extension
The attached picture is of a weed that has spread out in several patches throughout my lawn. It is about 3-4 inches tall. Any idea what it is, and t...
Knowledgebase
Lawn weed identification #169766
Asked March 11, 2014, 7:59 PM EDT
The attached picture is of a weed that has spread out in several patches throughout my lawn. It is about 3-4 inches tall. Any idea what it is, and the best way to get rid of it? Thanks!
Virginia Beach County Virginia
Expert Response
That looks like the flower stalk of bittercress. This weed is a prolific seed producers and has short germination to seed drop period so it's important to control the weed when it's young. Improving soil drainage, overseeding thin turf and adequately fertilize turf will help control the weed without the need for herbicides. If the weed problem is significant enough to warrant herbicide use, contract your local office for a recommendation appropriate to the type of turf you have.
Thanks Thomas, that is definitely what it is. Now, I just wonder why none of my neighbors have it in their yards. Maybe it was in the Scotts tall fescue seed I layed down last year. Anyway, thanks again!
There's a possibility it was in the seed you put down last year, but was probably seed that was in the environment anyway. Weed seeds get spread through animals and the wind over considerable distances. It also could have been in the soil column and was brought to the surface while you were doing your pre-planting soil prep.