Lawn Infestation - Ask Extension
What is this weed infesting my lawn and how/when do I treat it?
Knowledgebase
Lawn Infestation #880263
Asked August 05, 2024, 1:19 PM EDT
What is this weed infesting my lawn and how/when do I treat it?
Genesee County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello Michael,
Unfortunately, I'm unable to identify the plant. The photo wasn't clear enough for me to see the details of the leaves. Also, it appears that the plant has been mowed, so I can't see a full leaf.
I do have a couple of suggestions about what the weeds might be. Check out the links below. One of these may be a match.
http://www.misin.msu.edu/facts/detail/?project=misin&id=454&cname=Narrowleaf+plantain
https://www.clemson.edu/cafls/research/weeds/weed-id-bio/grasses-parent/grasses-pages-perennials/common-carpetgrass.htm
If neither ribbed plantain or carpetgrass is a match, could you send a couple of other photos? Dig up a plant that hasn't been mowed (if possible) and take photos of it. The picture might be clearer if it's isolated from the other plants.
Thanks, and I'll wait for your reply.
Unfortunately, I'm unable to identify the plant. The photo wasn't clear enough for me to see the details of the leaves. Also, it appears that the plant has been mowed, so I can't see a full leaf.
I do have a couple of suggestions about what the weeds might be. Check out the links below. One of these may be a match.
http://www.misin.msu.edu/facts/detail/?project=misin&id=454&cname=Narrowleaf+plantain
https://www.clemson.edu/cafls/research/weeds/weed-id-bio/grasses-parent/grasses-pages-perennials/common-carpetgrass.htm
If neither ribbed plantain or carpetgrass is a match, could you send a couple of other photos? Dig up a plant that hasn't been mowed (if possible) and take photos of it. The picture might be clearer if it's isolated from the other plants.
Thanks, and I'll wait for your reply.
Hello Margo,
I have attached two more photos. The lawn has grown out since I took the first one, so one photo is the plant in the lawn but not mowed. The other is one I dug up.
I don't think I have the two weeds you mentioned.
Please let me know what you think.
Kind Regards,
Michael Taljonick
Only one of the photos came up, but it is clear. I believe your plant is large crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis), also known as hairy crabgrass. If you look closely at the leaves, you will see stiff hairs along the edges.
The following article from the University of Minnesota describes hairy crabgrass and gives information on the management of the weed. I think you will find it helpful.
https://extension.umn.edu/weeds/crabgrass
If you are still unsure about the identification, please don't hesitate to contact me again, and I will pursue this further.
Have a great week,
Margo
MSU Extension Advanced Master Gardener Volunteer
The following article from the University of Minnesota describes hairy crabgrass and gives information on the management of the weed. I think you will find it helpful.
https://extension.umn.edu/weeds/crabgrass
If you are still unsure about the identification, please don't hesitate to contact me again, and I will pursue this further.
Have a great week,
Margo
MSU Extension Advanced Master Gardener Volunteer
