Barnyardgrass

Found in:

• Lawns and landscape plantings

Characteristics:

• Annual grass that grows rapidly during warm weather (summer)
• Grows flat initially with stems gradually lifting upward to 2-3’ as it matures
• Base of plant is purple tinged even when young
• Leaf blade is hairless, flat, narrow at base, smooth to slightly rough to the touch
• Leaf blade has a thick mid-vein and has saw-toothed edges
• Flower heads are green, turning to reddish brown
• Seeds are rough with tiny bristles pointing toward the tip

Significance

• Maintain minimum 2 1/2 - 3” mowing height and good turfgrass density
• Can be a more serious problem in newly seeded areas especially when seeding is done in late spring through early summer

Plants that look similar:

• Foxtail
• Large Crabgrass
• Smooth Crabgrass

More information and control options for Barnyardgrass