Lawn Care Tips: What Does Crabgrass Look Like?

We all want a weed-free lawn. But what if those patches of weeds in your yard are actually crabgrass? We’ll help you identify this invasive grass weed and understand why it appeared in the first place. You’ll also learn how to get rid of crabgrass in the summer before it takes over your lawn.

What Is crabgrass?

This annual grass weed begins to appear when soil temperatures reach about 60 degrees. The grass spreads its seed quickly before dying around the first frost of the year and germinating in the spring. Crabgrass grows more rapidly than other types of grass. Like most weeds, crabgrass can be quite difficult to eradicate.

What does crabgrass look like?

Crabgrass’s star-shaped tips create a spiky appearance. Its color ranges from light green to a dull, dark green with purple-tinged stems. Crabgrass grows in clusters with new shoots appearing in the middle. Its 1/4″-wide leaf blades are low to the ground. There are two types of crabgrass: smooth and hairy. Smooth crabgrass lacks the long hairs that grow along its counterpart’s stems and leaves. It’s also shorter and narrower than hairy crabgrass.

Why does crabgrass grow on your lawn?

Crabgrass growth is caused by mowing your grass too low. It can also show up when bare spots appear in your yard. Bare areas can be caused by lack of rain, pest infestations, chemical burns, weed growth and disease. Treat these spots quickly and keep your lawn at recommended lengths for your particular type of grass.

What kills crabgrass?

If you’re wondering how to weed out crabgrass, you’re definitely not alone. While it may be tempting to wait for frost to take hold and kill off your crabgrass, this isn’t a permanent solution. You can pull the grass up by the roots, and there are DIY solutions that are, unfortunately, only temporary fixes. Anyone wanting to learn how to get rid of crabgrass in the summer — and for good — should turn to lawncare professionals.

Lawncare and Pest Services from PURCOR

If crabgrass has taken over your yard, PURCOR can help restore your lawn’s health and beauty. From learning what kills crabgrass to understanding how to prevent its return, we’ll arm you with the knowledge and provide lawn care treatments you need for a great-looking lawn all year round. We go beyond pulling crabgrass and other grassy weeds with our safe yet effective lawncare solutions. Contact us today online for a free quote!