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What Is Crabgrass, and Why do you need Pre-Emergent!

Writer's picture: jason clarksonjason clarkson

Updated: Feb 2



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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