
Crabgrass is an annual weed that thrives in Kansas City’s warm, humid summers. It germinates in early spring when soil temperatures reach about 55°F and grows rapidly in thin or stressed lawns. Once established, crabgrass spreads quickly, overtaking healthy grass and leaving bare spots when it dies off in the fall.
1. Apply a Pre-Emergent Herbicide
Why It Works: Pre-emergent herbicides are your first line of defense against crabgrass. These products prevent weed seeds from germinating, stopping the problem before it starts.
When to Apply:
In Kansas City and Liberty, apply pre-emergent herbicides in early spring when soil temperatures consistently reach 50–55°F. This typically aligns with late March or early April.
A second application 6–8 weeks later can provide extended protection.
Pro Tip: Timing is crucial. Use a soil thermometer or consult a local lawn care professional like Turf Geeks to ensure optimal application timing.
2. Mow Your Lawn Properly
Why It Works: A healthy, dense lawn naturally shades the soil, making it harder for crabgrass seeds to germinate. Proper mowing practices are essential for maintaining thick, robust grass.
How to Mow:
Keep your grass at the recommended height for your turf type. For cool-season grasses common in Kansas City, like tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass, aim for 3–4 inches.
Never cut more than one-third of the grass height at a time to avoid stressing your lawn.
Pro Tip: Sharpen your mower blades to ensure clean cuts that promote healthy growth.
3. Water Wisely
Why It Works: Overwatering or watering at the wrong times creates ideal conditions for crabgrass growth. Adjusting your watering habits can help deter weeds and support your grass instead.
How to Water:
Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth in your lawn.
Aim for about 1–1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall.
Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and reduce the risk of disease.
Pro Tip: Avoid shallow, frequent watering, which encourages crabgrass to sprout.
4. Improve Lawn Health with Aeration and Overseeding
Why It Works: Crabgrass thrives in thin, compacted lawns. Aeration and overseeding can strengthen your grass, making it more resistant to weed invasions.
Steps to Take:
Aerate your lawn in the spring to reduce compaction and improve nutrient absorption.
Overseed thin areas with grass varieties suited to Kansas City’s climate, like tall fescue or Kentucky bluegrass.
Pro Tip: For best results, pair overseeding with fertilization to give your new grass a healthy start.
5. Fertilize Strategically
Why It Works: A well-fed lawn grows thick and healthy, leaving no room for crabgrass to establish itself.
How to Fertilize:
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to promote strong growth.
Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can stress your lawn and encourage weeds.
Pro Tip: A soil test can help you determine the right fertilizer for your lawn’s specific needs.
6. Monitor and Spot-Treat Crabgrass
Why It Works: Even with preventive measures, a few crabgrass plants may still appear. Early detection and treatment can stop these weeds before they spread.
What to Do:
Hand-pull small patches of crabgrass, ensuring you remove the roots.
Use a post-emergent herbicide specifically designed for crabgrass on larger infestations.
Pro Tip: Spot treatments work best when applied to young, actively growing crabgrass.
Trust Turf Geeks for Expert Crabgrass Prevention
Crabgrass doesn’t stand a chance when your lawn is healthy and well-maintained. At Turf Geeks, we specialize in customized lawn care solutions for homeowners in Kansas City and Liberty, MO. From pre-emergent applications to aeration and overseeding, our team has the tools and expertise to protect your lawn from weeds this spring.
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