UMass Extension Turf Program: Management Updates > 2008 Archive

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You Are Here: Management Updates 2008 Archive August 5, 2008

Date: August 5, 2008
Category: Weeds
Subject: Crabgrass, Paspalum, Broadleaf Weed Control

At this point in the growing season one can readily assess the successfulness of their single or split preemergence herbicide application programs for crabgrass control in turf. Favorable rainfall amounts have resulted in active turf growth which has enabled turf to continue to compete with annual grassy weeds. Generally speaking, statewide most preemergence herbicide applications provided effective crabgrass control, however postemergence control may be need to clean up “escapes” as well as turf edges next to hardscapes. At this time, with only perhaps a few exceptions, crabgrass at all locations statewide has developed to beyond the stage in which fenoxoprop (Acclaim Extra™) will provide effective control. Quinclorac (Drive™, Q4™, Momentum Q™) should be the material of choice with applications being made to crabgrass that is in or greater than 5-6 tiller growth stage. Turf should not be under drought stress as injury may occur. This is especially true of the fine fescues; applications should only be made to fine fescues if those species are a component of a mixed stand turf. Applications to predominantly fine fescue stands may result in noticeable injury. Quinclorac will not control goosegrass .

Paspalum , Paspalum setaceum, can be seen in turf now and is often incorrectly identified as crabgrass. This species is wrongly called dallisgrass. MSMA can be used for control with two applications two to three weeks apart usually being needed.

By early August in most seasons, broadleaf herbicide applications should be in a hiatus due to hot weather and drought stress on both turf and target weeds with applications being confined to irrigated sites where summer annual broadleaf weeds such as carpetweed and spotted spurge are the target species. This season broadleaf applications can continue to be made as long as we continue to receive rainfall and turf is not drought stressed. The addition of surfactants or spreader/stickers to broadleaf herbicide combination products can result in severe injury. Read and follow the product label.

Submitted by: Mr. Randall Prostak

DISCLAIMER - As always, it is the responsibility of the applicator to verify the registration status of any pesticide BEFORE applying it. Different states have different regulations as well. The author and the University of Massachusetts are not liable for any consequences of any pesticide "recommendations". Mention of any trade name is not to be considered endorsement of a product.

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