Posted on November 23, 2024 by Lawn Doctor
Dallisgrass isn’t a name most American homeowners are familiar with, but it can be one of the more challenging weeds to control in the spring and summer. As an aggressive perennial weed, dallisgrass can take over sections of a yard if left unchecked and crowd out more desirable grass. Let’s explore what dallisgrass is, how to recognize it and the steps you can take to control it.
Dallisgrass, Paspalum dilatatum, is a perennial grassy weed originally from South America. It was named after A.T. Dallis, who introduced it as livestock forage in the southern United States. While it works well for livestock, dallisgrass can be a major nuisance in lawns. Unlike annual weeds, which die off at the end of each growing season, dallisgrass is perennial, meaning it comes back year after year.
This resilient weed spreads both by seeds and creeping rhizomes (underground stems), so it’s tough to eliminate once it establishes itself. Dallisgrass thrives in warm, wet conditions and poorly drained areas, making it particularly common in the southern United States and regions with high humidity.
Dallisgrass grows in large, clumpy patches with a coarse texture and upright growth habit that stand out from the rest of the lawn. The blades are broader and coarser than those of most lawn grasses, with a light green to yellowish hue. Dallisgrass can grow tall, with seed stalks that rise above the lawn, sometimes reaching over a foot in height if left uncut.
One of the most distinctive features of dallisgrass is its seed head, which forms a series of long, finger-like spikes that branch out at the top of the stalk. The seeds grow along the side of each spike, giving the plant a uniquely segmented look.
Dallisgrass is often confused with crabgrass, another common lawn weed. While both are invasive and difficult to control, there are some differences that can help you tell them apart.
Getting rid of dallisgrass requires a strategic approach. This tough weed’s deep roots and aggressive growth make it challenging to control, but there are methods that can help.
Manual removal can work on minimal dallisgrass infestation. Start by digging out the plants with a sharp spade or weed removal tool, being careful to remove as much of the root system as possible. Dallisgrass roots can be deep and tenacious, so digging might not be a permanent solution for larger infestations. Dispose of the removed plants properly to avoid spreading the seeds.
Postemergent herbicides are often necessary for established dallisgrass. Choose an herbicide specifically designed to kill dallisgrass without harming your lawn’s other grass. Read the label instructions carefully and follow the application guidelines. It may take multiple applications to fully eradicate dallisgrass, as it’s quite resistant to standard herbicides.
Preemergent herbicides can also help control dallisgrass by targeting seeds before they germinate. A preemergent won’t affect established dallisgrass plants, but it can help prevent new seeds from taking root. Apply a preemergent herbicide in the early spring before temperatures rise and dallisgrass begins to grow.
Because dallisgrass is so resilient, the best approach is often a combination of manual removal, postemergent herbicides and preemergent herbicides. For particularly stubborn infestations, a professional lawn care service can provide access to specialized herbicides and expertise for a more effective solution.
Preventing dallisgrass from establishing in the first place is the best form of control. Here’s how you can make your lawn less inviting to this persistent weed.
A healthy lawn is one of the best defenses against dallisgrass. Regular mowing, watering and fertilizing encourage strong, resilient grass that can help crowd out weeds. Be sure to mow at the recommended height for your grass type, as cutting too short can weaken the lawn and allow weeds like dallisgrass to take hold.
Dallisgrass loves poorly drained, wet areas. If you notice certain spots in your lawn that stay damp or have standing water, you may need to improve drainage. This can involve aerating the soil to increase airflow and water absorption or even adding drainage systems to help move water away from problem areas.
Dallisgrass may be one of the toughest weeds to manage, but with the right approach, you can protect your lawn from its invasive growth. From careful identification to targeted treatment and prevention, we’ve outlined the steps needed to keep dallisgrass under control. If you’re dealing with a persistent dallisgrass problem or want to take proactive steps to maintain a healthy, weed-free lawn, contact Lawn Doctor. Our weed control experts can create a customized treatment plan tailored to your yard’s needs, helping you get rid of dallisgrass effectively.
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