Crabgrass is a notorious weed that can quickly invade lawns and garden beds, wreaking havoc on the aesthetics of your landscape. One common question among homeowners and gardeners is: does crabgrass have runners?
In this blog post, we'll delve into the characteristics of crabgrass, explore its growth habits, and discuss the presence of runners in this troublesome weed.
What is Crabgrass?
Crabgrass (genus Digitaria) is an annual grassy weed that thrives in warm-season climates and germinates from seeds each spring.
It is characterized by its low-growing, spreading habit and coarse texture, making it easily distinguishable from desirable turf grasses. Crabgrass is notoriously difficult to control due to its prolific seed production and ability to outcompete other plants for resources.
Understanding Runners
Runners, also known as stolons or rhizomes, are specialized stems that grow horizontally along the soil surface, producing roots and new shoots at intervals.
These structures allow certain plants to spread and colonize new areas, helping them survive and thrive in diverse environments. Many common lawn grasses, such as Bermuda grass and creeping bentgrass, produce runners as part of their growth strategy.
Do Crabgrass Have Runners?
While some grassy weeds, such as Bermuda grass and creeping bentgrass, produce runners, crabgrass does not typically have runners in the same sense.
Instead, crabgrass spreads by producing seeds that germinate and establish new plants, forming dense mats of vegetation that crowd out desirable grass species.
However, crabgrass may exhibit a prostrate growth habit, with stems that spread horizontally along the soil surface, resembling runners in appearance.
Control and Prevention
Despite the absence of traditional runners, crabgrass can still spread rapidly and become a nuisance in lawns and gardens. To effectively control and prevent crabgrass infestations, consider the following strategies:
- Pre-emergent herbicides: Apply pre-emergent herbicides before crabgrass seeds germinate to prevent weed growth.
- Cultural practices: Maintain a dense, healthy turf through proper mowing, watering, and fertilization to prevent crabgrass establishment.
- Manual removal: Hand-pull crabgrass plants before they have a chance to produce seeds, being careful to remove the entire root system.
- Post-emergent herbicides: Use selective herbicides specifically formulated to target crabgrass without harming desirable turf grasses.
Conclusion
While crabgrass may not have traditional runners like some other grass species, its ability to spread rapidly through seed production makes it a formidable weed to contend with.
By understanding its growth habits and employing effective control strategies, homeowners and gardeners can effectively manage crabgrass infestations and maintain healthy, vibrant lawns and landscapes.
