Bahiagrass is a resilient perennial weed common in warmer regions. Its aggressive growth makes it challenging for homeowners seeking a uniform lawn. This guide outlines effective strategies for removing bahiagrass and preventing its return.
Understanding Bahiagrass
Bahiagrass is identified by its coarse texture and distinctive V-shaped or Y-shaped seed heads on tall, wiry stems, typically 12 to 25 inches high. Its deep, fibrous root system provides notable drought tolerance.
It spreads vigorously through prolific seed production, rhizomes (underground stems), and stolons (above-ground runners that root at nodes). This aggressive spreading allows bahiagrass to outcompete and displace desirable turfgrasses, especially in low fertility or drought conditions.
Chemical Control Methods
Chemical control uses both pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides. Pre-emergent herbicides create a soil barrier that inhibits new bahiagrass seed germination. Apply these products in late winter or early spring before temperatures consistently reach 60-65°F.
For existing bahiagrass, post-emergent herbicides are necessary. Glyphosate is non-selective, killing bahiagrass and any desirable turf it contacts, making it suitable for spot treatments or full lawn renovation. Selective herbicides, such as those containing metsulfuron-methyl, sethoxydim, or atrazine, can be used in certain warm-season turfgrasses to target bahiagrass while minimizing harm to the lawn. Always read the product label to confirm suitability for your specific turf type.
Apply post-emergent herbicides when bahiagrass is actively growing, typically from late spring through early fall. Ensure the lawn is not under drought stress, as stressed weeds may not absorb the herbicide effectively. Apply on a calm day to prevent drift onto non-target plants and wear appropriate personal protective equipment as directed by the product label.
Non-Chemical Control Methods
Several non-chemical methods can reduce or eliminate bahiagrass. For small infestations, manual removal involves hand-pulling or digging out individual plants, ensuring as much of the deep root system as possible is removed to prevent regrowth.
For larger patches, smothering or solarization techniques are effective. Smothering covers the area with opaque materials like black plastic, cardboard, or old carpeting, blocking sunlight and killing the bahiagrass. Solarization uses clear plastic sheeting to heat the soil to lethal temperatures for bahiagrass and its seeds. Both methods typically require several weeks to a few months for complete control.
Sound cultural practices also suppress bahiagrass by promoting a dense, healthy lawn. Mowing at the highest recommended height (generally 2 to 3 inches) encourages desirable grass to shade out bahiagrass. Deep, infrequent watering promotes deeper root systems in desirable turf, making it more resilient. Proper fertilization, tailored to your turf and soil needs, strengthens the lawn, inhibiting bahiagrass establishment.
Preventing Bahiagrass Regrowth
Preventing bahiagrass regrowth relies on maintaining a healthy, dense lawn. Consistent proper mowing, watering, and fertilization contribute to vigorous turf. A thick lawn naturally inhibits bahiagrass seed germination and establishment.
Regularly inspect the lawn for emerging bahiagrass seedlings or small patches. Promptly address new growths with manual removal or spot treatment to prevent larger infestations. Early detection and intervention are crucial for effective management.
Overseeding bare spots with desirable turfgrass varieties prevents bahiagrass from colonizing open areas, as a uniform turf canopy leaves little room for weed seeds. Maintaining clean lawn edges and preventing seed spread from adjacent areas also reduces re-infestation risk.