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Crabgrass Digitaria ischaemum
IDENTIFICATION – Like all annual weeds, crabgrass sprouts in spring, matures, sets seed and dies the same year. New seedlings emerge next spring. Crabgrass spreads by seed (which can survive up to three years in the soil) and by rooting along the stem nodes, or joints.
FAVORITE CONDITIONS – Any lawn or garden areas in full sun or part shade.
CONTROL – The best control is to prevent seeds from spreading. Hand-pulling plants is effective, but tedious. You can also cover garden beds in a couple inches of mulch, which preserves moisture during dry spells and keeps out sunlight that’s vital for crabgrass seed germination. Or try a pre-emergent herbicide like Preen® according to directions.
