How to Identify and Get Rid of Roughstalk Bluegrass

There are countless weeds that can invade your lawn and wreak havoc on your grass, including roughstalk bluegrass. Unlike dandelions or clover, roughstalk bluegrass isn’t always easy to notice. That’s why it’s important to know what to look for! Read on to learn everything about roughstalk bluegrass, including what to do if you find it in your backyard.

What is Roughstalk Bluegrass?

Roughstalk bluegrass is a cool-season weed that can be found everywhere from roadsides to wheat fields to residential areas. It’s fast-growing and thrives in the same conditions as your grass, allowing it to quickly take over your lawn. When it dies back in the summer, it leaves behind unsightly bare spots and unhealthy turf.

What does Roughstalk Bluegrass Look Like?

There are small hairs on the leaves of this weed, which is why it has the name “roughstalk.” It looks similar to turfgrass—however, it’s easily distinguished by its coloration. Roughstalk bluegrass is a pale green and turns red when stressed, such as during a drought or period of high heat. It often grows in clumps, forming patches in the turf when growing alongside other grass varieties.

Where does Roughstalk Bluegrass Grow?

From shade to full sun, residential lawns to meadows, roughstalk bluegrass can grow almost anywhere. All it requires is soil that’s consistently moist with cool temperatures, although not freezing. This allows roughstalk bluegrass to thrive across the Midwest, as well as the east coast, which puts Maryland and Virginia right in the growth zone.

How does Roughstalk Bluegrass Spread?

Roughstalk bluegrass spreads through two methods, making it especially difficult to eradicate:

• Stolons: also called runners, these are stems that grow horizontally along the ground. New roots and branches grow from the stolons, which creep through existing turf and fill in any empty areas.
• Seeds: these allow roughstalk bluegrass to spread to new areas.

How to Get Rid of Roughstalk Bluegrass

There are a variety of ways to remove roughstalk bluegrass.

• Pulling the weeds or using a shovel to remove them is effective if the area is small, but won’t work if your entire yard is affected.
• You can also let your lawn dry out between waterings, as roughstalk bluegrass is not drought-tolerant and needs moisture to survive.
• The best option is professional weed control, which our lawn care technicians can help with! We use advanced products that target roughstalk bluegrass without killing your grass. Our pre-emergent treatments also prevent roughstalk bluegrass from growing to begin with, so you never even have to worry about it.

Contact us today to learn more about our effective and proven treatments!