How to Control Wiregrass in a Hay Field

Wiregrass is often used by farmers who have grazing livestock, however it can get out of control quickly. This plant that was introduced to the U.S. from Africa in 1751 can be found in the southwest regions of the United States in areas below 3,000 feet elevation. This wiry plant grows below and above ground, and can be very difficult to eradicate. After trying a few different options, you should be able to control the amount of wiregrass in your hay fields.

Tiller
Wheel barrow
Herbicides
Mulch
Shovel
Mower
Black polyethylene plastic

Instructions

- 1
  Stop irrigating the field. Wiregrass is tolerable of dry climates, however without water the plant cannot grow. This is especially important in the warmer months. Till the ground up a few times during the summer months to lift and remove the dead wiregrass from the area with a wheelbarrow.
- 2
  Spray herbicides on the wiregrass. Choose the herbicide according the use of the field. Some herbicides will kill other grasses, while others will only kill weeds. These can be found at local garden centers. If you have a severe wiregrass problem, you may want to contact professionals.
- 3
  Mulch over the wiregrass. This prevents rainwater and sunlight from getting to the plant. Without these two things, the plant will no longer grow and new plants won't be able to develop or spread seeds.
- 4
  Solarize plants that have made it through the three previous steps. This is preventing the plant from getting sunlight. Mow and water the grass. Wrap black polyethylene plastic around the entire plant down to the base and leave on for six to eight weeks. This is most effective during the spring and summer months and works best on larger plants.

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