Crowsfoot Grass

Crowsfoot Grass

Crowsfoot grass (Eleusine indica) is a common annual weed known to wreak havoc on lawns throughout Australia. This aggressive weed requires a strong integrated strategy, including quality herbicides, to effectively eradicate. 

Explore pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides to control crowsfoot grass at Specialist Sales, including proven products like Barricade, Freehand, and Crowbar

Need support finding the right herbicide for your needs? We’re here to help.

How to identify crowsfoot grass and why to get rid of it 

Crowsfoot grass is easily identifiable due to its growth habits and characteristics. It has a prostrate growth form, which means it trails along the ground and spreads through seeds. Crowsfoot grass has flattened stems and can root at the nodes, and its leaves are dark green and smooth. Its seed heads branch out like a bird’s foot, which is how it gets its name. These can produce many seeds which remain viable in the soil for several years. 

Crowsfoot grass is a problematic weed that crops up regularly in lawns, sporting fields, and other turf-heavy areas. Because it grows aggressively and can outcompete desirable grass species, controlling it is crucial. 


Getting rid of crowsfoot grass

Effective eradication of crowsfoot grass requires an integrated strategy.

  • Proper lawn maintenance: Regular mowing, watering, and fertilising will help maintain a dense, healthy turfgrass stand, which can outcompete crowsfoot grass. Mow at the recommended height to reduce light penetration and limit weed germination. 
  • Hand pulling: For small infestations of crowsfoot grass, hand weeding can be an effective strategy – especially if the soil is moist. Ensure you remove the entire root system to prevent regrowth.
  • Mulching: In non-turf areas, adequate mulching can prevent crowsfoot grass seeds from germinating by blocking sunlight from reaching the soil. 
  • Pre-emergent herbicides: Applying pre-emergent herbicides containing active ingredients like prodiamine, pendimethalin, and oxadiazon in the early spring can prevent the germination of crowsfoot grass seeds. When administering a pre-emergent herbicide, timing is critical. Apply the herbicide before the soil temperature reaches 13°C, as this is when crowsfoot grass will begin to germinate.
  • Post-emergent herbicides: If you’re dealing with an already-established crowsfoot grass infestation, opt for a post-emergent herbicide containing active ingredients such as metribuzin, ciclop-methyl, foramsulfuron, fluazifop, butroxydim, haloxyfop quinclorac, or glyphosate. Always follow label instructions when administering a herbicide, and consider the impact of using a post-emergent on surrounding turf species. 

The best herbicides for killing crowsfoot grass 

Effective pre-emergent herbicide options for killing crowsfoot grass include Onset 100GR, Freehand, Barricade, and Echelon Duo.

There is a broad range of post-emergent herbicides designed to address crowsfoot grass on the market. Some of our go-to products are Metric Herbicide, Crowbar, and Tribute

How to prevent reemergence of crowsfoot grass 

Once you’ve got crowsfoot grass under control, keep it at bay by adopting an integrated weed management strategy that combines mechanical and chemical methods.

  • Good soil health: Healthy soil supports healthy turf. Conduct soil tests to determine nutrient needs and pH levels so you can create an optimal growing environment. 
  • Overseeding: Regular overseeding with desirable turfgrass species will help maintain a dense stand of grass, reducing the space available for crowsfoot grass to establish itself.
  • Monitoring and early detection: Regularly inspect your lawn for signs of crowsfoot grass, especially in areas where turf is thin or stressed.

 

When these strategies are employed in conjunction with pre- and post- emergent herbicides, you can keep crowsfoot grass in check and ensure your turf remains lush and attractive.