What Is Crabgrass?
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In addition to natural and commercial herbicide methods, crabgrass can be pulled by hand.
Below, learn how to tackle crabgrass to keep your landscape in shape.
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From midsummer through fall, the plant produces more seeds in an attempt to increase its numbers.
Once the first frost arrives, the plants themselves (but not the seeds) are killed.
When to Kill Crabgrass
The proper time for attacking crabgrass depends on what method you are employing.
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Need more help?
If you’re working with a large patch, this could take a while.
Add Compost
Add organic compost to the area in question.
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Work the soil so that it is thoroughly incorporated.
Keep the Soil Moist
Water the area multiple times daily, depending on moisture conditions.
check that the soil is consistently moist until the seeds sprout.
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This meansleaving grass at a heightof 2 1/2 to 3 inches tall.
Weed as Needed
Throughout the season, pull any remaining crabgrass plants that sprout up.
By next year, your yard should be free of it.
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Apply pre-emergent herbicides before germination, which usually coincides with the blooming oflilac bushes.
Water actually activates pre-emergent herbicides.
Warning
Put on gloves and protect yourself with long pants and a long-sleeved shirt.
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Herbicides are toxic chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin.
Herbicides should always be applied by spot-treating rather than broadcast spraying.
Choose a windless, calm day for spraying crabgrass.
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Apply the Fertilizer
Spray or sprinkle the herbicide over the area in question.
confirm to apply it thoroughly and uniformly, taking care not to miss a spot.
Pour the mixture into a pump-stylegarden sprayer.
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Take care not to allow the spray to drift, as this chemical will also kill desirable turf grasses.
Unlike pre-emergent herbicides, post-emergent chemicals should be spot-sprayed directly on the weed, not applied broadly.
Observe and Repeat
The crabgrass should begin to turn brown and die within a few days.
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But rainfall or watering can rinse the herbicide away, so repeated follow-up treatments are sometimes needed.
Tips for Killing Crabgrass
There are a few ways to prevent crabgrass.
Yes, vinegar can kill crabgrass.
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You’ll want to ensure you’re using gardening vinegar, however, and not household vinegar.
Fill a spray bottle, spray the area, and repeat until the crabgrass is killed off.
