Crabgrass is an annual, grassy weed with pale, bluish-green blades that can reach 2 to 5 inches high and are often slightly hairy. Plants grow into flat, broad clumps that crowd out desirable plants, especially turfgrasses.
Crabgrass sprouts from late winter to early spring and summer, depending on where you live. The flower heads consist of slender, arching, fingerlike spikes originating from the top of the stems. Crabgrass is very fast growing and likes bare and weak areas of the lawn. It also finds its way into sidewalk, patio and driveway cracks, and in flower and vegetable gardens.
Where Crabgrass is Found Geographically
Common in most of the United States.
Similar Plants or Related Plants
Solutions
Cultural Controls
- Crabgrass is easiest to control when young.
- Keep lawns growing vigorously.
- Mow at proper height.
- Soil solarization can help control Crabgrass in vegetable gardens and new planting beds.
- Use landscape fabrics in planting beds.
For additional control measures in lawns, contact your local cooperative extension.
