Goosegrass
Goosegrass
Biology
Goosegrass (Eleusine indica) is a late-germinating summer annual grass frequently found in compacted or disturbed areas during the summer. These locations often include spots next to sidewalks or cart paths, golf course tees, and areas where soil is disturbed in the warmer months. In most Midwestern states, goosegrass germination typically begins about two to three weeks after crabgrass, usually in early May. However, it is less prevalent in the northern parts of the Midwest, such as Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.
Identification
It is a prostrate growing summer annual grass which forms a mat-like rosette. Its flattened leaf sheaths are typically a white to silver color, especially at the base of the leaf sheath. Because of this coloration and its similarity to crabgrass some call it silver crabgrass.
Furthermore, this grass can be distinguished from crabgrass by its leaf arrangement. GG leaves are folded in the bud (emerge from the sheath as folded) whereas crabgrass leaves are rolled in the bud emerge from the leaf as rolled.
Cultural control
Reduce soil compaction through aerification and improve turf density.
Biological control
Chemical control
Preemergence herbicides are the most effective solution for controlling goosegrass. Products containing oxadiazon, such as Goosegrass/Crabgrass Control, Ronstar, and Oxadiazon, consistently deliver the best preemergence control. While other preemergence herbicides might offer less control than oxadiazon, they can still be effective in areas where goosegrass is not overly problematic.
For application, use oxadiazon following the same timing as a standard crabgrass preemergence treatment. This timing varies by location but typically falls before April 15 in the Midwest. In regions with severe goosegrass infestations, a split application method is advisable. Apply the first half of the oxadiazon dose at the usual crabgrass preemergence timing, followed by the second half 60 days later.
For postemergence control in cool-season turf, effective options include fenoxaprop (Acclaim Extra), mesotrione (Tenacity), fluazifop (Fusilade II), topramezone (Pylex), and MSMA (restricted to golf courses and sod farms). Multiple applications may be necessary to control tillering goosegrass. Sulfentrazone (Dismiss) is particularly effective against pre-tillered goosegrass. Remember, these herbicides are specific to certain turfgrass species and usage areas. Always consult the herbicide labels and accurately identify your turfgrass species before applying.