Battling Summer Weeds: Nutsedge, Spurge, Crabgrass, and Foxtail
Summer brings sunshine, barbecues, and unfortunately, a host of pesky weeds. If you’re a homeowner in Kansas City, you know that certain weeds thrive in our hot, humid climate. Among the most troublesome are nutsedge, spurge, crabgrass, and foxtail. Understanding these weeds and how to control them can help keep your lawn lush and healthy all summer long.
Nutsedge: The Grass-Like Invader

Nutsedge, often mistaken for grass, is a perennial weed that grows faster than typical lawn grass. It has a triangular stem and produces yellow or purple flowers.
Control Tips:
Manual Removal: Pulling nutsedge by hand can be effective for small infestations. Make sure to remove the entire plant, including the underground tubers. If you pull this and don't get the tubers it's a mess, that's why I don't recommend pulling the weed out.
Herbicides: Post-emergent herbicides specifically labeled for nutsedge can be applied. Look for products containing sulfentrazone or halosulfuron.
Spurge: The Ground Hugger

Spurge is a low-growing annual weed with small, dark green leaves and a distinctive red spot on the stem. It spreads quickly and can choke out grass.
Control Tips:
Manual Removal: Pull spurge plants before they set seed, ensuring you get the root.
Pre-Emergent Herbicides: Applying a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring can prevent spurge seeds from germinating.
Post-Emergent Herbicides: Use broadleaf herbicides to control existing spurge. Look for products containing 2,4-D or dicamba.
Crabgrass: The Persistent Annual

Crabgrass is an aggressive summer annual that thrives in thin or bare spots in your lawn. It has a coarse texture and forms a dense mat, crowding out desirable grass.
Control Tips:
Pre-Emergent Herbicides: Apply a pre-emergent herbicide containing dithiopyr or pendimethalin in early spring to prevent crabgrass seeds from germinating.
Mowing and Watering: Maintain a healthy lawn by mowing at the correct height and watering deeply but infrequently. This helps your grass outcompete crabgrass.
Post-Emergent Herbicides: For existing crabgrass, use a post-emergent herbicide labeled for grassy weeds.
Foxtail: The Tall Trouble

Foxtail is a summer annual with wide, bushy seed heads that resemble a fox’s tail. It can grow tall and dense, overshadowing your lawn grass.
Control Tips:
Pre-Emergent Herbicides: Apply a pre-emergent herbicide in the spring to prevent foxtail seeds from sprouting.
Post-Emergent Herbicides: Products containing quinclorac are effective against young foxtail plants.
Cultural Practices: Maintain a thick, healthy lawn to prevent foxtail from establishing. Proper fertilization and overseeding can help.
General Tips for Weed Control
Maintain Lawn Health: A thick, healthy lawn is your best defense against weeds. Regular mowing, watering, and fertilization are crucial.
Soil Testing: Conduct soil tests to ensure your lawn has the proper pH and nutrient levels.
Spot Treatment: Apply herbicides as spot treatments to minimize the impact on your lawn and the environment.
Timing: Apply pre-emergent herbicides in early spring and post-emergent herbicides when weeds are young and actively growing.
By understanding these summer weeds and implementing proper control measures, you can enjoy a beautiful, weed-free lawn throughout the season. If you need professional assistance, Turf Geeks KC is here to help with expert lawn care services tailored to the Kansas City climate.
Contact Turf Geeks KC today to get started on your journey to a healthier, greener lawn!
If you need help on your lawn, click here https://www.turfgeekkc.com/contact-8
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