If you're a homeowner in the Pittsburgh area, chances are you're familiar with crabgrass. But do you know why it's so bad for your lawn? Let's take a look at what crabgrass is and why it's an unwelcome visitor in your yard.
Crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis) is an annual weed that is most commonly found in warm climates (though it can survive in cooler temperatures). It grows low to the ground and has long, narrow blades of grass that spread out like fingers. It typically sprouts up during the warmer months and dies off during the cold winter season.
The main issue with crabgrass is that it quickly takes over an area of your lawn, crowding out other grasses and plants. This makes it difficult for healthy grass to get the nutrients, water, and sunlight that it needs to thrive. Additionally, crabgrass tends to be coarser than other types of grasses, meaning it looks unattractive and can be difficult to mow.
Unfortunately, getting rid of crabgrass isn't always easy—once it takes hold in your lawn, it can be difficult to remove completely. The best way to prevent crabgrass from taking over your yard is by maintaining a healthy lawn overall—mowing regularly, applying fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during the growing season, watering deeply but infrequently throughout the summer months, and aerating once a year will all help keep your lawn healthy and free of unwanted weeds like crabgrass. If you already have an established infestation of crabgrass in your yard, consider using a post-emergent herbicide or spot-treating with vinegar or boiling water as potential solutions. Of course, hiring a Pittsburgh Area lawn care professional is always a great choice!
No one likes unexpected visitors - especially when those visitors are unwelcome weeds like crabgrass! While getting rid of this pesky weed may not always be easy (or fun!), following proper lawn maintenance practices throughout the year can help encourage healthy growth and keep crabgrass from taking over your yard. With some patience and persistence, you'll soon have a beautiful lawn that won't require any uninvited guests!