Knowledgebase

Grass weed treatment? #801034

Asked July 14, 2022, 7:37 AM EDT

Can you identify what type of grass/ weed this is? Is there a way to treat it still this year? Pictures attached, and thank you!

Wright County Minnesota

Expert Response

We can't identify the grassy weed without seeing it, however, based upon what we can see in the photos, we think the lawn is infested with quackgrass.

You may be able confirm or rule out this ID by viewing the following images and information. If quackgrass is confirmed, look for control methods there too.

https://images.app.goo.gl/2m65DKevhj7ApNex9

https://turf.purdue.edu/quackgrass/

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/quackgrass_control_in_turf

An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 14, 2022, 3:27 PM EDT

Thanks for your input, I looked at the info you sent, by my eye I don’t think (hope it’s not) quackgrass. Do the attached pictures help at all?

The Question Asker Replied July 15, 2022, 8:53 AM EDT

The additional photos help, but they still lack the detail needed for certain ID.

Here is an excellent tool that may enable you to make the call:

https://plantscience.psu.edu/outreach/plant-id/grasses/crabgrass

An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 15, 2022, 10:14 AM EDT

Plant ID apps think the weed is crabgrass. When they mature, plants that haven't been mowed develop distinctive seed heads.
https://images.app.goo.gl/FqRhWo461F8jcr2h9
https://images.app.goo.gl/4KryXNREbQgPdxrC6

It's best to control crabgrass using a pre-emergent in spring. Controlling mature plants is much more difficult.

https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-news/controlling-crabgrass-your-lawn

An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 15, 2022, 3:59 PM EDT

Thanks for helping. I like my chances with crabgrass better than with quackgrass!

The Question Asker Replied July 15, 2022, 5:13 PM EDT

Absolutely!

An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 15, 2022, 10:00 PM EDT