Japanese Stilt Grass

One thing I have learned this year: Japanese Stilt Grass is a MAJOR problem for landscapers and homeowners in this Maryland/DC area.

So what is Japanese Stilt Grass and did it come from Japan?

YES - Stilt grass originates from Japan. It was used as a packing material for porcelain in the 1900's and it is believed that seeds in the packing material were unintentionally introduced to North America.

Why is it a problem here?

Japanese stilt grass spreads rapidly, especially in areas that have been disturbed. Unlike most grasses, it can grow prolifically in the shade and densely cover wooded floors, thereby preventing the growth of other plants including young trees and shrubs. To make matters even worse, our animals don't seem to have a taste for it.

Control Options:

Where and when possible, manual removal should be the primary method of control. For larger infestations, chemical control may be possible.

You can use a non-selective herbicide such as Razor Pro (glyphosate) or if you would like to selectively eradicate the stilt grass - you can use Acclaim Extra (fenoxaprop) - Acclaim will also help you knock out some of the crabgrass in your lawn as well.

I know, I know - your lawn doesn't have crabgrass (wink, wink)

Consult labels for specific use rates and controls.

Got Crabgrass?

Controlling Crabgrass In Your Lawn

Maybe you applied a Pre-emergent in the Spring, maybe you didn't. Maybe you could have used another application, maybe it's the weather's fault. No matter who is to blame, you now have crabgrass in your lawn and you want to control it.

You have basically two options, to control the crabgrass selectively or non-selectively. Controlling the crabgrass with a selective herbicide will allow you to eradicate only the crabgrass from your lawn, without injuring your desired turf. A non-selective control will eradicate the crabgrass as well as your desired turf.

Let's talk selective controls. The following is a list of Selective Herbicides we carry that will control crabgrass:

             - Quinclorac 75DF (Equivalent to Drive 75DF): This is a Dry Flowable powder that you can mix with water to create a spray solution. Use rate is .367 oz per 1000 sq ft.

             - Acclaim Extra: This is a concentrated liquid formulation (shown here in a pint container). Use rate is .08 oz - .90 oz per 1000 sq ft.

              - Quincept: This is a concentrated liquid formulation, a combination of 2,4-D, Dicamba & Quinclorac. This combination will allow you to control crabgrass as well as broadleaf weeds such as dandelion, clover, etc. Use rate is 2.6 oz - 2.9 oz per 1000 sq ft.