Managing Crabgrass Without Herbicides:
What Changes in Management and Budget Need to be Considered?

   Turf renovation carried out in the spring and early summer without the use of a preemergence herbicide fails more often than not due to annual grass pressure. This weed pressure is not present if turf establishment is initiated in the late summer and early fall. Crabgrass plants that germinate in new seedings at this time of the year seldom reach a size that deters establishment and will soon die with the onset of cold weather.

   When planning turf establishment, choose species and cultivars that are best suited for site conditions and turf use. Aggresive cultivars should be considered. Encourage rapid establishment by providing adequate fetility at seeding, especially phosphorus. Maintain good soil moisture during the germination and early establishment period. Overseeding can be a valuable tool in restoring sites where turf thinning has resulted from insufficient crabgrass control.

Part II of this article will appear soon.

This article was taken from Hort Notes Volume 13, Number 1.