This cartoonish sounding weed has recently been spotted in Cleveland and Columbus yards this spring. Often mistaken for crabgrass; quackgrass is a perennial grass that looks very similar, with thin hollow stems and fat, hairy blades. In this article, we'll take a look at what it is, what causes it, and most importantly, how to get rid of it.

What's Quackgrass?

Quackgrass is a perennial weed that has been in America for hundreds of years. Like other perennials, quackgrass has a strong, deep root system with rhizomes that if split, can grow into separate plants. This quick spreading weed can take over a lawn very quickly and because most of the plant/weed is below the surface, it is very hard to control. 

What Causes Quackgrass to Grow in Lawns?

Quackgrass seeds are a tasty treat for small birds, such as sparrows. Often these birds lose the seeds in your lawn, causing the weed to grow. Additionally, straw bales often contain quackgrass seeds that can get into your lawn.

Once one plant grows, it often spreads with a little help from us. When quackgrass goes to seed, mowing the lawn often spreads the seed further causing more plants, further complicating the problem.

How Can I Get Rid of Quackgrass?

Unfortunately, quackgrass is one of the hardest weeds to get rid of in your lawn. There is no selective herbicide that will kill quackgrass and leave your lawn un-effected. The best bet for treating your lawn is to treat the quackgrass clumps with Roundup, remove the dead plant, and seed the area. While it may seem extreme, killing quackgrass early in the season will help to keep this weed from going to seed, and spreading all over your lawn.  

Quackgrass: Weed of the Week from AgPHD.com

Spring Tips and Tricks to Keep Weeds Like Quackgrass at Bay!

Weeds are just one of the many issues you could face this spring. That's why Weed Pro has put together one of the best spring lawn care guides in the industry. The best part is that it's yours absolutely free by clicking on the link below!

Shaun Kanary has been a part of the Green Industry for the past 15 years. As the Director of Marketing for Weed Pro Lawn Care, a Cleveland and Columbus Lawn Care Service Provider, Shaun is a regular contributor to the Weed Pro Blog, and other industry magazine and blogs.  Shaun on Google+     Shaun on LinkedIn     Shaun on Twitter