How To Get Rid Of St Augustine Grass In Fescue

How to Get Rid of St. Augustine Grass in Fescue

So, you've got a case of St. Augustine grass invading your prized fescue lawn? Don't despair! This common lawn care problem has effective solutions. This guide will walk you through the best methods to eradicate St. Augustine grass from your fescue, ensuring a healthy, vibrant lawn.

Understanding the Problem: St. Augustine vs. Fescue

Before diving into solutions, let's understand why St. Augustine is such a nuisance in fescue lawns. St. Augustine grass is a warm-season grass, while fescue is a cool-season grass. This fundamental difference means they have different growing seasons and preferences. St. Augustine's aggressive growth habit allows it to easily outcompete fescue, especially in warmer climates.

Effective Methods to Remove St. Augustine Grass

The most effective approach depends on the extent of the infestation. For small patches, manual removal might suffice. For larger areas, chemical control is often necessary.

1. Manual Removal (for Small Infestations):

This method is best for small, isolated patches of St. Augustine.

• Digging: Carefully dig up the St. Augustine grass, removing as much of the rhizomes (underground stems) and stolons (aboveground stems) as possible. Be thorough! Any remaining pieces can regrow.
• Patience is Key: This is labor-intensive, but effective for small areas. Regular monitoring is crucial to catch any regrowth.

2. Herbicide Application (for Larger Infestations):

For larger infestations, a selective herbicide is recommended. Always follow the product label instructions carefully.

• Selective Herbicides: Choose a herbicide specifically labeled for controlling St. Augustine grass in fescue lawns. These herbicides target St. Augustine without harming your fescue.
• Timing is Crucial: Apply the herbicide when the St. Augustine grass is actively growing. This usually means applying it during the warmer months.
• Multiple Applications: Multiple applications may be necessary for complete eradication, especially with established infestations.

3. Preventing Future Infestations:

Prevention is always better than cure. These measures can help prevent future St. Augustine grass invasions:

• Proper Lawn Maintenance: Keep your fescue lawn healthy and thick. A strong fescue lawn is less susceptible to weed invasion. This includes regular mowing, fertilization, and watering.
• Mulching: Use mulch to suppress weed growth.
• Clean Equipment: Clean your lawn mowing equipment after each use to prevent spreading St. Augustine grass fragments.

Choosing the Right Approach

The best approach depends on several factors:

• Size of the infestation: Small patches can be tackled manually; larger areas usually require herbicides.
• Your comfort level: Manual removal is labor-intensive.
• Herbicide availability and regulations: Check your local regulations regarding herbicide use.

Maintaining a Healthy Fescue Lawn

After removing the St. Augustine grass, focus on maintaining the health of your fescue lawn. This includes:

• Regular Fertilization: Provide your fescue with the necessary nutrients for optimal growth.
• Consistent Watering: Water deeply and infrequently to promote deep root growth.
• Proper Mowing: Mow at the recommended height for your fescue variety.

By following these steps, you can effectively eliminate St. Augustine grass from your fescue lawn and enjoy a lush, healthy lawn for years to come. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow instructions carefully when using any chemical products.