Identification

Crabgrass, scientifically known as Digitaria, is a common annual weed that can be a nuisance in lawns and other areas. It gets its name from its sprawling stems that resemble the legs of a crab. Crabgrass has broad, flat blades and produces long flower clusters and thousands of seeds per growing season.

Types of Crabgrass

There are two main types of crabgrass: smooth crabgrass and hairy crabgrass. Smooth crabgrass is more common.

• Smooth Crabgrass: Has no hairs around the sheath or leaves. The leaves taper to a point, and the stems bend at the nodes.
• Hairy Crabgrass: Has tiny hairs on the leaves and stems. The leaves are broader than smooth crabgrass and can be up to 1/2-inch wide.

Life Cycle

Crabgrass is an annual plant, meaning it lives for one year. It begins its life cycle in the spring when the soil temperature reaches 55 degrees Fahrenheit. The seeds germinate and the seedlings resemble miniature corn stalks. As the seedlings grow, the leaves start to branch out.

Crabgrass thrives in hot and dry weather conditions. It is drought tolerant and can often be the last green thing on the lawn before a late fall frost kills it.

Spread

Crabgrass spreads by seed. If the seeds are not prevented from germinating, they will develop roots and emerge as new plants. Sprouted crabgrass can grow more vigorously if its long stems are allowed to flop over and touch the ground. The stems can root at the nodes, and secondary stems can sprout off the main stem, a foot or two away from the main crown.

Prevention

The best way to prevent crabgrass is to stop the seeds from germinating. This can be done by using a pre-emergent herbicide in the spring. Pre-emergent herbicides create a barrier on the soil surface that prevents the seeds from absorbing water and germinating.

Control

If crabgrass has already germinated, it can be controlled with a post-emergent herbicide. Post-emergent herbicides target specific weeds or plant categories, such as grassy versus broadleaf plants. It is important to read the herbicide label carefully and follow the instructions for application.

Other methods of crabgrass control include:

• Maintaining a healthy lawn by mowing high and fertilizing
• Hand-pulling large seedlings
• Removing dead crabgrass plants
• Reseeding bare lawn spots with healthy lawn grass
• Mulching non-lawn areas

Additional Tips

• Crabgrass seeds can be spread by wind and animals. Even if you successfully control crabgrass on your property, it is possible for seeds from neighboring properties to blow over and germinate in your lawn.
• It is important to reapply pre-emergent herbicide every year to prevent crabgrass from germinating.
• Post-emergent herbicides can kill crabgrass permanently, but they do not prevent new seeds from germinating.

Identifying Different Types of Ivy

Ivy is a common name for various plants, some of which are harmless ornamentals while others are invasive weeds. Here are some common types of ivy:

• Swedish ivy: A harmless houseplant commonly grown in hanging baskets.
• English ivy: An attractive groundcover that can become invasive if left unchecked.
• Boston ivy: Similar to English ivy, with holdfasts that allow it to climb buildings and trees.
• Ground ivy: A lawn weed that releases a pleasing fragrance when mowed.
• Poison ivy: A toxic plant that causes skin irritation.

When to Kill Ivy

Spring is the best time to kill ivy before its leaves develop a waxy coating that makes it more resistant to herbicides. Apply herbicides when the ivy has 3-5 leaves of new growth.

Before Getting Started

Before killing ivy, consider the type of ivy you are removing and take appropriate precautions. Wear protective clothing when removing poison ivy. If possible, opt for organic methods like pulling or digging out the roots for ground ivy.

Methods for Killing Ivy

Killing Ivy on the Ground

1. Select a broadleaf herbicide containing glyphosate.
2. Spray the ivy with the herbicide.
3. Cut down the vines to the ground after die-back occurs.
4. Dispose of the vines properly.

Killing Ivy Attached to a Tree

1. Cut all vines at the base of the tree.
2. Make cuts in the vines higher up the tree trunk, about 5 feet up.
3. Carefully peel the 5-foot section of vines off the trunk, working from the ground up.
4. Dig out the ivy roots around the base of the tree.

Killing Ivy Climbing a Wall

1. Spray the ivy with glyphosate.
2. Cut the vines at the base of the wall.
3. Slowly peel small sections of vine off the wall, cutting away any resistance.
4. Dig out the ivy roots along the base of the wall.
5. Remove holdfasts using a solution of bleach, dish soap, and water, followed by scraping and brushing.

Additional Tips

• Repeat the herbicide application if necessary, as ivy can be persistent.
• Be patient, as killing ivy may take some time and effort.
• Monitor for any new growth and remove it promptly.
• Never compost ivy vines or roots, as they may contain viable seeds or root fragments.
• If you have questions or concerns about killing ivy, consult a professional arborist or landscape contractor.

Identifying Common Weeds

Weeds are unwanted plants that can invade lawns and gardens, competing with desirable plants for resources and nutrients. Identifying weeds accurately is the first step towards effective control.

Common Lawn Weeds

• Crabgrass: Low-growing, grassy weed with reddish or purplish seedheads.
• Dandelions: Perennial weeds with bright yellow flowers and deeply dissected leaves.
• Plantain plants: Broadleaf weeds with oval, ribbed leaves that form a rosette.
• Common ragweed: Tall, branching weed with deeply lobed leaves and small, greenish flowers.
• Annual bluegrass: Fine-textured, cool-season grass that forms dense tufts.

Common Garden Weeds

• Japanese knotweed: Invasive, bamboo-like plant with large, heart-shaped leaves.
• Poison sumac: Toxic shrub with white berries and bright fall foliage.
• Hedge bindweed: Vine with arrow-shaped leaves and pink or white flowers.
• Ground ivy: Creeping, mat-forming weed with clover-like leaves and a pleasant aroma.
• Purslane: Succulent with fleshy, succulent leaves and small, yellow flowers.

Controlling Weeds

Once weeds have been identified, various methods can be employed to control their spread:

Prevention

• Mulching: Applying a layer of organic material over the soil can prevent weed seeds from germinating.
• Pre-emergent herbicides: These herbicides are applied before weeds emerge to form a barrier that prevents their growth.

Mechanical Control

• Hand-pulling: Removing weeds by hand is effective for small infestations.
• Tilling: Tilling the soil can disrupt weed roots and prevent their regrowth.
• Mowing: Regular mowing can prevent weeds from going to seed and spreading.

Chemical Control

• Post-emergent herbicides: These herbicides are applied directly to weeds to kill them.
• Selective herbicides: These herbicides target specific weeds without harming desirable plants.
• Non-selective herbicides: These herbicides kill all plants they come into contact with.

Special Considerations for Poisonous Weeds

Some weeds, such as poison ivy and poison sumac, are poisonous to humans. It is important to take precautions when dealing with these plants:

• Wear protective clothing: When removing poisonous weeds, wear gloves, long sleeves, and pants to protect your skin.
• Avoid touching: Do not touch poisonous weeds with bare hands.
• Dispose of properly: Dispose of poisonous weeds in a sealed plastic bag to prevent them from spreading.

Conclusion

Identifying and controlling weeds in lawns and gardens is an ongoing task. By understanding the different types of weeds and employing effective control methods, homeowners can maintain healthy and weed-free landscapes.

Identification

Spurge weed (Euphorbia maculata), also known as spotted spurge, is a common invasive weed found throughout the United States. It is easily recognizable by its lacy network of thin stems with small, oval blue-green leaves. The leaves may have a reddish tinge. Spurge weed typically forms a flat, oval shape and grows to about 6-7 inches in diameter. It produces tiny, pale pink or green flowers that can self-seed quickly.

Invasive Nature

Spurge weed is a highly invasive plant due to its:

• Tiny seeds that travel easily via wind, animals, and pedestrians
• Ability to thrive in poor soil and drought conditions
• Deep taproot that anchors the plant and allows it to regenerate after removal
• Prostrate growth habit that allows it to spread quickly over other plants

Toxicity

Spurge weed contains a toxic milky sap that can cause skin irritation and eye damage if ingested. It is important to wear gloves when handling spurge weed, especially when removing it from your yard.

Removal

Removing spurge weed can be challenging, but it is possible with persistence. Here are some effective methods:

• Hand-pulling: Carefully pull the entire plant, including as much of the taproot as possible.
• Digging: Dig around the plant to loosen the taproot before pulling.
• Boiling water or vinegar: Pour boiling water or vinegar over the spurge weed, particularly after pulling, to kill any remaining roots.
• Herbicides: Non-selective herbicides can be used to kill spurge weed, but they should be applied carefully to avoid harming other plants.

Prevention

Preventing spurge weed from establishing in your yard is essential. Here are some effective measures:

• Inspect nursery plants: Check nursery plants for spurge weed before transplanting them into your garden.
• Maintain healthy soil: Improve soil conditions by adding organic matter and maintaining a thick layer of mulch.
• Control weeds: Regularly remove weeds, especially in thin or compacted areas where spurge weed is likely to thrive.
• Establish a dense lawn: A thick, healthy lawn will help prevent spurge weed from taking hold.
• Use pre-emergent herbicides: Apply pre-emergent herbicides in early spring to prevent spurge weed seeds from germinating.

Other Types of Spurge

Besides spurge weed, there are several other types of spurge that can be problematic weeds. These include:

• Ground spurge: Acts as a groundcover and can root along the stem nodes.
• Creeping spurge: Similar to spotted spurge but has no leaf markings and produces small purple-brown splotches on the leaf centers.
• Petty spurge: A less invasive cool season annual that grows in shady, moist areas.
• Garden spurge: Less problematic than spotted spurge and produces yellow flowers.
• Nodding spurge: Another less problematic spurge with nodding flower heads.
• Thyme-leafed spurge: A small, low-growing spurge that is less invasive than other types.

FAQs

Why is spurge weed so invasive?

Spurge weed is invasive due to its small, easily dispersed seeds, its ability to thrive in harsh conditions, and its persistent taproot.

Can spurge weed overtake other plants?

Yes, spurge weed can spread quickly and overtake other plants by depriving them of sunlight and strangling or stunting their growth.

Is it best to use herbicides to control spurge weed?

Herbicides can be effective in killing spurge weed, but they should be used carefully to avoid harming other plants. The best way to control spurge weed is to remove it as soon as it appears and to maintain a healthy yard.

Is spurge weed a harmful plant?

Yes, spurge weed is a harmful plant. It is toxic, can crowd out native plants, and is difficult to eradicate.

What is a Weed?

Weeds are plants that are considered undesirable or harmful in a particular location or context. They are often invasive and spread aggressively, competing with other plants for resources such as water, nutrients, and sunlight. Weeds can also harbor pests and diseases, making them a nuisance in gardens, lawns, and other managed landscapes.

Identification and Characteristics of Weeds

Identifying weeds can be challenging, as they vary greatly in appearance and growth habits. However, some common characteristics of weeds include:

• Growing in undesired locations
• Rapid growth and spread
• Invasive root systems (such as rhizomes)
• Production of abundant seeds
• Tolerance to adverse conditions

Weed Removal Methods

There are numerous methods for removing weeds, ranging from organic to chemical approaches. The most effective method depends on the type of weed and the specific situation.

Organic Weed Removal Methods

• Boiling Water: Pouring boiling water directly onto weeds can kill them, especially annual weeds with shallow roots.
• Salt: Mixing salt into water and applying it to weeds can dehydrate and kill them. However, salt can also harm soil health, so use it sparingly.
• Hand-Pulling: Removing weeds by hand is a labor-intensive but effective method. Ensure you remove the entire root system to prevent regrowth.

Chemical Weed Removal Methods

• Herbicides: Chemical herbicides are effective at killing weeds, but they can also harm beneficial plants and soil organisms. Use herbicides carefully and according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Preemergent Herbicides: These herbicides prevent weed seeds from germinating.
• Postemergent Herbicides: These herbicides kill weeds that have already emerged.

Invasive Plants and Control

Invasive plants are non-native species that spread aggressively and can harm native plant populations. Some invasive plants are also considered weeds. Controlling invasive plants is crucial for protecting native ecosystems.

• Deadheading: Removing flowers from invasive plants prevents them from producing seeds and spreading.
• Bamboo Barrier: Erecting a sturdy plastic barrier in the soil can contain the spread of invasive plants that spread via rhizomes (underground shoots).

Weed Control Without Chemicals

• Cultural Practices: Promoting healthy soil and plant growth through proper watering, fertilization, and mulching can help prevent weed infestations.
• Native Plants: Planting native plants that are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions can help crowd out weeds and reduce their spread.
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM): IPM involves using a combination of methods, including organic and chemical approaches, to control weeds while minimizing environmental impact.

Tips for Optimal Weed Control

• Early Detection and Removal: Identifying and removing weeds early on is essential for preventing their spread.
• Regular Maintenance: Mowing lawns, trimming hedges, and weeding regularly can help keep weeds in check.
• Use Caution with Herbicides: Only use herbicides as a last resort and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
• Promote Soil Health: Healthy soil promotes healthy plants that are more resistant to weeds.
• Consider Native Plants: Native plants provide numerous benefits, including weed suppression and support for local wildlife.