You Are Here: Management Updates 2009 Archive May 20, 2009

Date: June 2, 2009
Category: Weeds
Subject: Broadleaf Weeds, Crabgrass

Herbicide applications for broadleaf weeds should be in full swing now. White clover is in flower now and applications of broadleaf herbicide products that contain dicamba, clopyralid, fluroxypyr and quinclorac are good choices. Clopyralid is not labeled for use on residential turf. Herbicide products that contain triclopyr and/or dicamba are good choices for groundivy, sheep sorrel and wild violets. Amine formulations of broadleaf herbicides are preferred over ester formulations for areas around ornamental plantings at this time of the growing season.

Continue to scout for the germination of crabgrass and other annual grass weeds. In some locations crabgrass is beginning to tiller and new seedlings are still appearing. Scouting should focus on areas of thin turf and/or those areas that face south or southwest. Early postemergence applications of fenoxaprop or quinclorac can be done as needed. Consider using higher spray volumes as the turf canopy may create “spray shading” by intercepting the spray and not allowing it to reach the very small crabgrass seedlings. Those sites that are on a split-application program should receive their second preemergence application. If you see a large number of crabgrass plants now consider replacing your second preemergence split with a postemergence application or a pre-post application.

For an update on weeds in landscape plantings, see UMass Extension's Landscape Message

Submitted by: Randy Prostak

DISCLAIMER - As always, it is the responsibility of the applicator to verify the registration status of any pesticide BEFORE applying it. Different states have different regulations as well. The author and the University of Massachusetts are not liable for any consequences of any pesticide "recommendations". Mention of any trade name is not to be considered endorsement of a product.

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