How To Get Rid Of Bahia Grass In Warm Or Cool Seasons

What’s wrong with bahiagrass? Depends who you ask.

Bahiagrass is a coarse grass that was introduced into the U.S. around 1913 as a forage grass for cattle. It’s drought tolerant and does well in poor and even hard-packed soils, so some people use it as turf grass. It’s also used for roadside erosion control in some areas. So it has its uses.

But boy, is it ugly.

The stuff is coarse and weedy-looking, it has an open canopy and does not fill in well as turf, and it grows about two feet in a week so it’s a devil to keep mowed if you do choose—for whatever reason - to grow a bahiagrass lawn. 

Plus, it has a strange and unappealing Y-shaped seed head that stands out like a sore thumb in a lawn.

If you want to get rid of bahiagrass, consider this your ultimate guide. I’ll tell you what to do to nix it for good - and keep it from coming back.

What is Bahiagrass?

Source

Bahiagrass is a coarse, weedy-looking grass with an open canopy. It doesn't fill in well as turf and grows about two feet in a week, making it difficult to keep mowed. Its Y-shaped seed head stands out awkwardly in a manicured lawn.

Bahiagrass is native to South America and was introduced to the United States by the USDA, as I mentioned earlier. It quickly became a naturalized citizen of the southern states, particularly in Florida, Texas, and the rest of the Gulf Coast (and yes, Georgia). 

It has a lot of benefits - we’ll cover the positives first. For one, its heat tolerance and drought resistance are second to none. It’s also a tough cookie that boasts a deep root system, making it resilient during dry spells. Its coarse, light green blades are distinctive, and while it may not have the lush appearance of, say, Kentucky bluegrass, it more than makes up for it with its durability and low-maintenance needs.

Plus, it’s not fussy about soil quality, happily growing in sandy or clay soils that would send other grasses packing.

Primarily used for pasture and turfgrass, bahia grass stands up well to heavy foot traffic (and grazing). It’s also popular along highways and erosion control because it’s so resilient.

However, all the same features that make bahiagrass so attractive also make it quite frustrating to get rid of when you don’t want it there. It isn’t as attractive as many other types of grass, and it’s coarse and rough to walk on - not great if you have pets or kids playing on the lawn. 

Again, its tendency to spread and sprawl - its notorious stubborn streak - make it quite frustrating to deal with.

How To Get Rid Of Bahiagrass In Central Georgia

Source

 

Around here, bahiagrass grows wild in pastures, vacant lots and forgotten areas, where it tends to take over. It goes to seed in about half the time as most other grasses, and spreads like the dickens. 

So you can imagine that bahiagrass control is a constant battle. Bahiagrass is super tough and hard to get rid of, but if you’re really determined and willing to be in it for the long haul, here is what we suggest.

What Kills Bahiagrass?

Once it’s established, getting rid of bahiagrass typically calls for a lot of chemical work. Which type of chemicals you can use depends on the season and on what type of lawn it’s growing in.

As weeds go, bahiagrass is a really tricky one. Bahiagrass is a perennial grass, meaning it returns year after year, even after dying back during cooler seasons. This makes it particularly tricky to manage, as it will re-emerge in the spring after seemingly dying off in the winter.

During the cool season, when the surrounding turf is completely dormant, you can use a non-selective herbicide like Roundup. To do this, it’s crucial that the turf is fully dormant; otherwise, the herbicide will also kill the turfgrass along with the bahiagrass.

In the warm season, different methods are recommended depending on your type of lawn:

  • Bermuda Grass Lawns: For Bermuda grass lawns, MSMA is the herbicide of choice. Typically, two to three applications are necessary to effectively kill bahiagrass.
  • Zoysia or Centipede Grass Lawns:In Zoysia or Centipede grass lawns, a product called Mansion is more suitable. This herbicide requires three to four applications for effective control.

Ultimately, consistency is key when it comes to applying any of these treatments. Missing an application of herbicide can cause the bahiagrass to recover and spread further. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions on whatever herbicide you use; this not only will make sure the treatment is effective, but will keep you (and your lawn) safe.

As you apply these treatments, regularly monitor them and adjust your plan as needed. If you notice that the bahiagrass is still hanging on strong after the recommended number of applications, it may be time to try something else (or contact us here at T Lake).

Bahiagrass Prevention Methods

Source

Bahiagrass is known for its aggressive and widespread growth, making it a challenge to control completely. However, taking preventative measures can serve as your first line of defense against this invasive weed.

Regular Spraying as a Preventative Measure

One of the most effective ways to keep bahiagrass at bay is through regular spraying. At T.Lake, we recommend treating yards seven times a year for most types of turfgrass.

In early spring, we apply a preemergent herbicide. This treatment targets weed seeds that have remained in the soil over the winter, preventing them from germinating and growing into mature plants. By stopping these seeds before they sprout, you can significantly reduce the presence of bahiagrass in your lawn.

Avoiding Seed Introduction

Another critical step in preventing bahiagrass is to avoid introducing its seeds into your lawn.

Weed seeds, including those of bahiagrass, can travel long distances carried by wind, water, and even on the shoes and clothing of people. While you can't entirely prevent seed drift, being cautious can help minimize the risk.

Clean Equipment Protocols

One of the most common ways bahiagrass seeds are spread is through lawn maintenance equipment. For instance, if someone mows a field infested with bahiagrass and then mows your lawn without cleaning their equipment, they can inadvertently spread the seeds onto your property. 

We mitigate this risk by thoroughly cleaning every piece of equipment between properties. This practice helps prevent the unintentional transfer of weed seeds from one location to another.

Monitoring Foot Traffic

Be mindful of who has access to your lawn. Inform your lawn care team about the importance of cleaning their equipment and make sure any visitors are aware of the risk of transporting weed seeds.

Lawn Health and Maintenance

Maintaining a healthy lawn is one of the best ways to prevent weed invasions. Healthy turfgrass can compete more effectively against weeds like bahiagrass. Ensure your lawn receives the right amount of water, nutrients, and aeration to promote robust growth.

Soil Testing and Fertilization

Regular soil testing can help you understand the nutrient needs of your lawn. Based on the test results, you can apply the appropriate fertilizers to create an optimal growing environment for your turfgrass, making it harder for bahiagrass to establish itself.

Mulching and Ground Cover

Using mulch and ground covers in garden beds and other non-lawn areas can also help prevent bahiagrass from taking hold. Mulch creates a barrier that makes it difficult for weed seeds to reach the soil and germinate.

What About Organic Bahiagrass Prevention Methods?

Source

 

While an organic approach is admirable, it can be challenging to manage bahiagrass without synthetic chemicals. However, there are several effective strategies you can employ to keep this invasive grass at bay and maintain a healthy, lush lawn.

Vinegar Solutions

One of the most popular organic methods for bahiagrass control is the use of vinegar solutions. White vinegar, when diluted 1:1 with water, can act as a natural herbicide. Here's how to use it effectively:

  • Application: Spray the diluted vinegar solution directly onto the bahiagrass. Ensure thorough coverage but avoid oversaturation.
  • Frequency: Apply the vinegar solution every few days, especially after mowing, to weaken the grass progressively.

Be mindful when applying vinegar solutions near desirable plants, as vinegar can harm them too.

Regular Mowing

Frequent mowing is a key element when it comes to managing bahiagrass. This grass species can quickly take over if left unchecked, but regular mowing can help control its spread.

Aim to mow your lawn at least once a week. This prevents bahiagrass from seeding and eventually weakens it over time.

Also, keep your lawn mower at the recommended height for your specific grass type. Cutting too short can stress your lawn, while cutting too high allows bahiagrass to thrive.

Soil Health Improvement

Besides vinegar and mowing, there are other organic techniques you can incorporate into your bahiagrass prevention strategy. These methods focus on enhancing the overall health of your lawn, making it more resistant to invasive species.

Remember, healthy soil is the foundation of a robust lawn. You can improve your soil's health by:

  • Aeration: Aerate your lawn annually to promote root growth and nutrient absorption.
  • Composting: Apply organic compost to your lawn to enrich the soil with essential nutrients and beneficial microorganisms.

Overseeding 

Introduce more desirable grass species to outcompete bahiagrass by overseeding your lawn:

When you overseed, choose grass varieties that are well-suited to your climate and soil type.

For this to work well, timing is everything. Overseed during the optimal growing season for your chosen grass species to ensure successful establishment.

Mulching

Last but not least, mulching can help suppress bahiagrass growth by blocking sunlight and limiting its ability to germinate:

Use organic mulch like wood chips or straw around garden beds and landscaped areas. When  you mulch, apply a thick layer  (about 2-3 inches) to effectively smother the bahiagrass and prevent it from coming back.

Bahiagrass Control In Central Georgia

Proper control of bahiagrass is beyond the scope of the typical homeowner - not just because of the constant vigilance it requires, but because the chemicals needed to control it require a professional applicator’s license. 

Most people we know, though, would rather not do it themselves anyway. The good news? You don’t have to. We’ve got your back. 

If you would like to get rid of bahiagrass the easy way, why not give us a call? You can reach us online, or call our Macon people at 478-750-7733, or our East Dublin office at 478-272-3878. We’ll be happy to take the job off your hands.

T Lake



Topics: Commercial Landscape Maintenance