Crabgrass loves bare hard acidic soil. That is why it generally appears first at edges of pavement where the excessive heat from the pavement heats and compacts the soil. We have applied a pre-emergent to the properties which will control most of the crabgrass, but there are many cultural variables which affect the crabgrass population.

The soil is very acidic and compacted as we have previously stated, this contributes greatly to the current crabgrass outbreak. We treated The Fells today and did treat the crabgrass. This will take one - two weeks to kill and will turn yellow then brown. The Reserve was treated on 7/18 and should be showing signs of crabgrass turning.

Below is an excerpt from a report on the causes of crabgrass.

MANAGEMENT

Crabgrass is managed using a variety of cultural and chemical controls. Controlling crabgrass before it sets seed is important, because the seeds can remain viable for at least 3 years in soil.

Cultural Control in Turfgrass.

Because crabgrass spreads and reproduces primarily by seed, any cultural efforts that reduce seed production will decrease occurrences of this weed. Cultural activities that increase the vigor of turfgrass also decrease the potential of crabgrass invasion. These include using the proper mowing height for your specific turf, balanced soil acidity (Ph), selecting the best turf species for your area, overseeding to keep turfgrass thick, applying fertilizer at the correct time of year, and proper irrigation. Proper irrigation is directly affected by compacted soil and thick thatch layers.

We will continue to work with you to control this problem, but the only way to get truly good results is to thicken the turf through the methods we have previously outlined (aeration and lime applications).

Thank you,

Joe Gaukstern
Commercial Sales Manager, Lawn Dawg Inc.