How to Remove Stilt Grass From a Lawn

Japanese stilt grass is considered an invasive species. It grows slowly through the summer, achieving heights of up to 3 feet tall. Boasting long and thin green leaves, the plant is asymmetrical in shape, with stalks of small flowers in late summer. It spreads by seeds, with each plant producing up to 1,000 seeds annually. Stilt grass tends to form extensive patches, ruining the appearance of your lawn. Once the seeds spread to your yard, it can be a hassle to get rid of it, due to the aggressive nature.

Gloves
Systemic herbicide containing glyphosate
Pre-emergent herbicide containing imazapic
Lawn mower

Instructions

- 1
  Pull stilt grass from your lawn. It has shallow roots, so it's easier to pull from the ground than other plants. Work when the soil is moist to make the process even easier. The best time is in mid- to late summer because the grass is taller and has more branches. Continue to pull it through the rest of the season.
- 2
  Apply a systemic herbicide that contains glyphosate. Glyphosate is a nonspecific herbicide, so it will kill any plant it comes in contact with. For that reason, spray it directly on the stilt grass, taking care not to let the spray get on the neighboring lawn.
- 3
  Spray a pre-emergent herbicide containing imazapic in the spring. Use 4 oz. per acre, spraying it all over the lawn with a flat fan nozzle. You can reapply as needed through the germination process.
- 4
  Mow stilt grass in the late summer, between August and September. This is when it is flowering, but before seed is produced. Cutting the annual down late in the season will keep it from regrowing the same season.

Tools Needed to Plant Grass Seed

How to Grow Grass on Gravel

Lawn Planting