How to control paspalum in your lawn
What is paspalum?
Paspalum (Paspalum dilatatum) is a perennial grass weed that is found throughout the Victorian region. It has broad leaves with a purple tinge at the base, stemming from a central crown. It produces seed-heads at the end of long, upright flowering stems.
Paspalum grows primarily throughout the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. In sparse and poor performing lawns, it starts as clumps and then spreads throughout via sticky seeds that easily adhere to pets, shoes, and other objects then fall off in a new location.
How can I remove paspalum from my lawn?
Like most common weeds, paspalum is best removed by hand. Make sure you dig underneath the crown below soil level to remove the entire root system of the plant. If you act quickly you should be able to eradicate it from your lawn fairly easily this way.
What if the paspalum is already out of control?
If the paspalum has already spread throughout your lawn, you may need to apply a selective herbicide. Paspalum, Nutgrass & Clover Weed Killer is formulated especially for the control of paspalum and can be easily mixed in a pressure sprayer. The addition of a surfactant or wetting agent will help it to adhere better to the paspalum leaf. For best results, spray the paspalum when it is actively growing during the warmer months. Repeated applications may be required for complete eradication.
It is always easier to prevent and control weeds from the outset rather than trying to remove them once they get out of hand. By choosing a suitable lawn species for your area, keeping it healthy and well maintained, and mowing it regularly to the right height for your chosen variety, you’ll have a leg-up on any potential weed invasions.