NC State Extension Publications

Description

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Barnyardgrass (Echinochloa crus-galli) is an upright summer annual weed of turfgrass. It is found in moist, disturbed sites, marshes, and wet turf areas. Barnyardgrass can most easily be distinguished from other grasses by its seedhead, and the fact that it has no ligule.

Cultural Control

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These grasses occur infrequently in North Carolina in highly maintained turf but can be common in utility turf, such as along roadsides. Maintaining a dense, healthy turf year round by proper mowing and fertilization helps prevent encroachment and weed establishment.

Species Data

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  • SEEDHEAD / FLOWER
  • VERNATION TYPE
  • LIGULE TYPE
  • GROWTH SEASON / LIFE CYCLE
    • summer annual weed
  • AURICLE TYPE
  • LEAF BLADE TIP SHAPE
    • sharp-pointed; edges rough, blades all in same plane
      Figure 11
  • LEAF BLADE WIDTH
    • 0.4 - 0.8 inches (10 - 20 mm) wide
  • STOLON PRESENCE
    • absent
  • RHIZOME PRESENCE
    • absent
  • COLLAR TYPE
  • SHEATH MARGIN
  • SHEATH TYPE
    • flattened; sheath occasionally has short hairs; red- to purple-tinged at base
      Figure 16, Figure 17
Barnyardgrass seedhead

Figure 1. Barnyardgrass seedhead.

Barnyardgrass seedhead

Figure 2. Barnyardgrass seedhead.

Barnyardgrass seedhead

Figure 3. Barnyardgrass seedhead.

Barnyardgrass vernation

Figure 4. Barnyardgrass vernation.

Barnyardgrass vernation

Figure 5. Barnyardgrass vernation.

Barnyardgrass vernation

Figure 6. Barnyardgrass vernation.

Barnyardgrass vernation

Figure 7. Barnyardgrass vernation.

Barnyardgrass ligule

Figure 8. Barnyardgrass ligule.

Barnyardgrass auricle

Figure 9. Barnyardgrass auricle.

Barnyardgrass auricle

Figure 10. Barnyardgrass auricle.

Barnyardgrass leaf blade tip shape

Figure 11. Barnyardgrass leaf blade tip shape.

Barnyardgrass collar

Figure 12. Barnyardgrass collar.

Barnyardgrass collar

Figure 13. Barnyardgrass collar.

Barnyardgrass sheath

Figure 14. Barnyardgrass sheath.

Barnyardgrass sheath

Figure 15. Barnyardgrass sheath.

Barnyardgrass sheath

Figure 16. Barnyardgrass sheath.

Barnyardgrass sheath.

Figure 17. Barnyardgrass sheath.

Author

Extension Specialist (Turfgrass/Forage Crop Weed Mgt)
Crop & Soil Sciences

Find more information at the following NC State Extension websites:

Publication date: Nov. 7, 2017

Recommendations for the use of agricultural chemicals are included in this publication as a convenience to the reader. The use of brand names and any mention or listing of commercial products or services in this publication does not imply endorsement by NC State University or N.C. A&T State University nor discrimination against similar products or services not mentioned. Individuals who use agricultural chemicals are responsible for ensuring that the intended use complies with current regulations and conforms to the product label. Be sure to obtain current information about usage regulations and examine a current product label before applying any chemical. For assistance, contact your local N.C. Cooperative Extension county center.

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