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The
Master Gardener Articles
Crabgrass
Crabgrass is one of
those internal lawn weeds that rears it ugly head every spring. Some people
believe it’s a perennial (doesn’t die every fall) however it is truly an
annual (goes to seed each fall) and germinates each spring. This is our window
of opportunity. Chemicals are available to interrupt this cycle by preventing
germination and /or killing the germinating seed. (Pre-emergent herbicides)
Crabgrass germinates when the soil temperature is 50° F, which is generally
in the first week of May. However along sidewalks or areas where the soil
might warm more quickly, earlier germination can be expected. In order to
prevent germination of crabgrass the pre-emergent herbicides should be applied
no later then April 15 and as early as April 1 if you’re an early bird. Crabgrass
grows well in full sun and in thin turf. By following a good fertilizer program
(4 time/ year) you will increase turf density and discourage crabgrass development.
For more information, contact George McVey, Union County Program Assistant,
Horticulture and Master Gardener Coordinator at 937.644.8117 or by e-mail
at gmcvey@ag.osu.edu.
The Master Gardener
Offers horticulture advice and tips, focusing on current issues by
volunteers who are with The Ohio State University Extension, Union
County Master Gardener Program. For answers to gardening questions,
call 937.644.8117 or e-mail gmcvey@ag.osu.edu. Hours are
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
All educational programs conducted by Ohio State
University Extension are available to clientele on a nondiscriminatory
basis without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation,
national origin, gender, age, disability or Vietnam-era veteran status.
Keith L. Smith, Associate Vice President for Ag.
Admin. and Director, OSU Extension TDD No. 800-589-8292 (Ohio only)
or 614-292-1868
Revised April, 2006
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