NC State Extension Publications

Description

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Large crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis), also called hairy crabgrass, is a common weed in turfgrass situations, and can germinate from March through early May in North Carolina when soil temperatures reach 53 to 58°F at a 4-inch depth. This weed is found in a variety of habitats. Germination of this weed is encouraged by the alternating dry and wet conditions at the soil surface in the spring. Stems have a prostrate growth habit and may root at the lower nodes. Large crabgrass is similar to smooth crabgrass. However, the leaf blade of smooth crabgrass is not as hairy, with a few hairs near the base of the blade. Leaf blade edges of smooth crabgrass are either not hairy or have sparse hairs.

Cultural Control

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Crabgrass will grow under close mowing conditions. Competition is enhanced by thin open turfgrass stands, improper mowing heights for the desired turf, summer fertilization, and light, frequent irrigation. For crabgrass control, practice procedures outlined to maintain a dense, actively growing turf.

Species Data

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  • SEEDHEAD / FLOWER
  • VERNATION TYPE
  • LIGULE TYPE
    • membranous; 0.04 - 0.08 inches (1 - 2 mm) long, rounded to sharp pointed, toothed, often reddish
      Figure 5
  • GROWTH SEASON / LIFE CYCLE
    • summer annual weed
  • AURICLE TYPE
  • LEAF BLADE TIP SHAPE
    • sharp-pointed; covered with short hairs on both surfaces, sharply creased below, edges rough with scattered hairs
      Figure 8
  • LEAF BLADE WIDTH
    • 0.2 - 0.6 inches (5 - 15 mm) wide
      Figure 7
  • STOLON PRESENCE
  • RHIZOME PRESENCE
    • absent
  • COLLAR TYPE
  • SHEATH MARGIN
    • open
  • SHEATH TYPE
    • flattened; sheath has long hairs; often with purple veins
      Figure 13
Large Crabgrass seedhead

Figure 1. Large Crabgrass seedhead.

Large Crabgrass seedhead

Figure 2. Large Crabgrass seedhead.

Large Crabgrass seedhead

Figure 3. Large Crabgrass seedhead.

Large Crabgrass vernation

Figure 4. Large Crabgrass vernation.

Large Crabgrass ligule

Figure 5. Large Crabgrass ligule.

Large Crabgrass auricle

Figure 6. Large Crabgrass auricle.

Large Crabgrass leaf blade width

Figure 7. Large Crabgrass leaf blade width.

Large Crabgrass leaf blade tip

Figure 8. Large Crabgrass leaf blade tip.

Large Crabgrass stolon presence

Figure 9. Large Crabgrass stolon presence.

Large Crabgrass stolon presence

Figure 10. Large Crabgrass stolon presence.

Large Crabgrass collar

Figure 11. Large Crabgrass collar type.

Large Crabgrass collar

Figure 12. Large Crabgrass collar type.

Large Crabgrass sheath.

Figure 13. Large Crabgrass sheath.

Author

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

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Publication date: Nov. 8, 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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