To get rid of crabgrass effectively, here are several methods and tips:
- Preventative Care:
- Apply a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring before crabgrass seeds begin to germinate (before soil temperatures reach about 55°F or 12.8°C). This prevents the seeds from taking root.
- Water your lawn regularly to keep soil moist as crabgrass thrives in dry, hot conditions, whereas healthy lawn grass prefers moist soil.
- Reseed and overseed bare or thin lawn areas to give desired grass a chance to crowd out crabgrass.
- Manual Removal:
- For small infestations, hand-pull crabgrass, making sure to remove as much of the root as possible to prevent regrowth.
- Natural Treatments:
- Use mulch to smother crabgrass by laying a 3-inch layer of organic mulch.
- Boiling water can kill isolated crabgrass patches but may require repeated applications.
- Spray vinegar (white or apple cider) or a mixture of lemon juice concentrate and vinegar on crabgrass during hot sunny days to wilt and kill it, although multiple treatments may be necessary.
- Solarize small patches by covering them with clear plastic for about six weeks to kill the plants using heat.
- Chemical Herbicides:
- Use selective post-emergent herbicides designed to kill crabgrass without harming lawn grass. These are most effective when crabgrass is actively growing.
- Ready-to-use products like Ortho® Weed B-gon® Lawn Weed Killer + Crabgrass Control can target crabgrass down to the root.
- Lawn Maintenance:
- Aerate your lawn in autumn to reduce soil compaction and strengthen grass roots.
- Regularly rake leaves and mow grass appropriately to keep lawn healthy and reduce crabgrass growth.
Timing:
- Start treatments early in the growing season before crabgrass sets seed.
- If crabgrass covers a large area, consider spraying the entire lawn.
- Late summer treatments may be less effective as crabgrass will die with the first frost.
Avoid relying solely on home remedies like boiling water or vinegar for large or persistent problems, as these may damage desired grass and not kill roots effectively. For long-term control, consistent lawn care, prevention, and the appropriate use of herbicides are key.
