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Weed/issue #939872

Asked July 20, 2026, 11:11 AM EDT

Help identify this weed ed/ grass

Summit County Ohio

Expert Response

From the pictures it appears that your lawn contains crabgrass. I am not able to determine from the pictures whether it is large crabgrass or smooth crabgrass, but the management of both is the same. The following articles from Rutgers University and Purdue University should help you confirm the identity of the crabgrass and give some ideas f or control.

FS1308: Crabgrass Control in Lawns for Homeowners in the Northern US (Rutgers NJAES)

Crabgrass | Purdue University Turfgrass Science at Purdue University

Crabgrass is an annual grass that can outcompete most cool season turfgrasses during hot and sunny weather. It is nearly impossible to eliminate crabgrass from a lawn. It is important to address crabgrass issues before the plants set seed. At this time of year, it will be necessary to remove the grass by hand or spot treat with post-emergent herbicides. Since the crabgrass plants are already large, it may take more than one application of herbicide. Herbicides work best when plants are actively growing. If there is no rain, you may want to water the crabgrass to keep it growing so the herbicide can be more effective.

The best defense against crabgrass (and most other summer annual weeds) is a healthy, dense lawn. Fertilizing in early autumn and possibly spring will promote the growth of the cool season turf grasses. Do not fertilize now as that would benefit the weeds more than the grass at this time of year. Maintaining higher mowing heights of at least 3 inches will help shade the soil and lessen crabgrass seed germination.

Consider seeding bare areas in your lawn in late summer to early autumn. You will need to keep the soil moist until seed germinates and becomes established. Best seeding time in Ohio is from mid August until late September. On the earlier side in northern half of Ohio, later in the southern half.

You may also want to perform a soil test. The soil test will tell you the pH and nutrient status of your soil and make recommendations to make adjustments if necessary. Most county OSU extension offices offer soil test kits. I did not see that you indicated which county you are in. An online search for Ohio State extension by county should help you locate yours.

Soil Testing Is an Excellent Investment for Garden, Lawn, and Landscape Plants, and Commercial Crops

You may want to consider using pre-emergent herbicides in the spring next year to prevent the crabgrass seeds already in the soil from germinating. Don’t use pre-emergents in the spring if you plan to plant grass seed then.

If you choose to use any herbicides, read the label and follow directions carefully. Be sure to use any recommended personal protection equipment.

I hope you find this information helpful. If I can be of further assistance, please reply to this answer. Thank you for choosing Ask Extension. I wish you success with your lawn.

Marlene Replied July 20, 2026, 10:19 PM EDT

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