Winter Weed Profile: Rescue Grass (Bromus catharticus) and winter weed control.

Spring may be some time away, but lawns still face challenges from winter weeds. Here at American Lawnscape, we understand the importance of proactive weed control to maintain a lush, green lawn throughout the growing cycle. 

In this blog series, we’ll discuss our approach to winter weed control (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Weed_control) and how it sets your lawn up for success in the coming months.

Rescue Grass Overview:

Rescue grass is a cool-season, annual or biennial grass species commonly found in North Texas lawns, pastures, and roadsides during winter and early spring. It thrives in cooler temperatures, with an optimal air temperature range of 50–70°F (10–21°C). It begins germinating in the fall when soil temperatures drop below 70°F (21°C) and continues to grow vigorously throughout the winter and early spring months.

Plant Description:

  • Growth Habit: Clump-forming, upright grass reaching 1–3 feet in height.
  • Leaves: Broad, flat leaves with a slightly rough texture and a bright green color.
  • Seed Head: Loose, open panicles with slender, drooping spikelets.
  • Roots: Fibrous root system.

Problems in Manicured Lawns:

  • Early Germination: Rescue grass germinates in fall and grows aggressively during winter, outcompeting desired lawn grasses like Bermuda or St. Augustine.
  • Unsightly Appearance: Its coarse texture and uneven growth pattern stand out in finely manicured lawns, reducing visual appeal.
  • Difficult Control Window: Pre-emergent herbicides must be applied before soil temperatures drop below 70°F, which can be challenging to time accurately.
  • Post-Emergent Control Challenges: Post-emergent herbicides effective against rescue grass often harm desirable lawn grasses, making selective treatment difficult.
  • Reseeding Habit: The plant produces a significant number of seeds, enabling it to return seasonally if not managed properly.

Best Management Practices:

  • Apply pre-emergent herbicides in late summer to early fall before germination.
  • Maintain a dense, healthy lawn to outcompete rescue grass.
  • Mow regularly to prevent seed head formation.

Rescue grass can become a persistent problem without a proactive and well-timed management strategy.

Don’t let winter weeds steal the spotlight!

Contact American Lawnscape today to learn more about our winter weed control program. Our experienced technicians will assess your lawn and recommend the most effective solution to keep those pesky winter weeds at bay.

Any Questions?

As always, please reach out with any questions pertaining to your yard. You can reply or call/text (214-308-1322). We appreciate getting to work with you and appreciate your partnership.

Throughout this Winter Weed Blog Series, we’ll drill down into weed prevention strategies as well as specific weeds that you will likely see during winter months. 

Learn More Information 

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2024/25 Winter Weed Series (#1 of 8)

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