Annual Bluegrass

Scientific Name: Poa annua

Other Names: Lowgrass, Carpetgrass, Flatgrass, Wintergrass

Leaf Type: Grassy

Flowers: Inconspicuous yellow flowers that form in a cluster that is wind pollinated.

Leaves: Long narrow blades with pointed tips.

Life Cycle: Annual

DESCRIPTION

Annual Bluegrass is a type of grass with long, narrow leaves that are typically bright green and smooth or slightly rough to the touch. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers in late spring or early summer, and the flowers are wind-pollinated. After flowering, it produces small seeds that can be dispersed by wind, water, or animals. It is a common grass that can be found in lawns, golf courses, and other areas with well-watered soil. Poa Annua can be considered a weed in some situations because it can quickly invade and take over areas where other grasses are growing.

HOW TO IDENTIFY

Poa Annua tends to grow taller and brighter than everything else around it in the spring time. In most lawns it will stick out because it will turn green and go to seed before the rest of the lawn has come out of dormancy. Look for large clumps rather than individual blades. Poa will aslo go to seed relatively quickly (often before the rest of your lawn greens up).

Mechanical Control Recommendations

It’s essential to remember that mechanical control alone may not entirely eliminate Poa annua, especially in areas where the grass is actively managed, like golf courses and sports fields. Combining mechanical methods with chemical control and cultural practices can offer more effective long-term management. Always follow best practices and local regulations when using herbicides or pesticides. For large-scale control efforts, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional turfgrass manager or horticulturist.

For small infestations, hand pulling can be effective. Be sure to remove the entire plant, including the roots, to prevent regrowth.
Regular mowing can help prevent Poa annua from producing seeds and spreading. Keep the grass height higher (around 3 inches) to shade out the Poa annua and discourage seed production.
Thatch, a layer of dead organic matter between the grass blades and the soil surface, can provide a favorable environment for Poa annua to establish itself. Periodic dethatching can help reduce its presence.
Aerating the soil can improve turf health and reduce Poa annua by creating a more favorable environment for desirable grass species.
Introducing desirable grass species through overseeding can help compete with Poa annua and reduce its prevalence.
Tools like hoes or weeders can be used to manually remove Poa annua from flower beds or areas where hand pulling is not practical.
In severe cases, when Poa annua has taken over a large area, complete lawn renovation may be necessary. This involves killing off the existing vegetation, tilling the soil, and reseeding with desirable grass species.
In non-turf areas like flower beds, using weed barriers can help prevent the establishment of Poa annua.

Pre-emergent herbicides:

Pendimethalin, Dithiopyr, Prodiamine

Post-emergent herbicides:

Ethofumesate, Pronamide, Flumioxazin, Glyphosate (Non-selective herbicide, use with caution to avoid damaging desirable plants)

Selective herbicides:

Metolachlor, Mesotrione, Sulfosulfuron, Sethoxydim

Herbicide Combinations:

Herbicide Mixtures, Spot Treatment

Recommended Prevention:

Negate 37WG (1.5 oz)