Grass Killer & Geese

Grass Killer

• Grass killers can run the gamut from herbicides to biological controls. Usually, however, the term applies to chemicals that target specific unwanted grass species. Many different kinds of grass killer and other kinds of weed killer exist. Some are targeted toward specific species, while others will kill any plant material they come into contact with. Some are meant for application before the weed emerges, known as pre-emergence, and others for after the weed is above the soil line, called post-emergence. Chemical grass killers may be dangerous for wildlife, pets and other plants in the area.

Animals and Grass Killer

• Although many different kinds of grass killer exist, many are not safe for animals right after application, and recommend a waiting period between several days and several months before putting the animal on treated land. The waiting period indicates that the grass killer can enter the animal’s system if it is put on treated grass too soon. If you have animals that roam in your yard or garden, and are opposed to tainting food sources with herbicides, a non-chemical approach to getting rid of unwanted grass is advisable.

Geese as Grass Killer

• Luckily, geese can function quite well as grass killer. They have been used for a long time in orchards, vineyards, crop fields and vegetable patches for their impeccable weed control abilities. On top of that, they eat fallen fruit that would otherwise harbor insects that could cause an infestation. Though it might seem like geese would eat anything in their path, they actually don’t. They are safe for use on coniferous and hardwood trees, flowering plants, fruit and shade trees, as well as such annual crops as cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) and corn (Zea mays), and perennials such as strawberries (Fragaria spp.), thriving in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 8.

Managing Geese

• Although geese can eat an enormous amount of green stuff -- up to their own weight per day -- they will most likely need a supplemental diet of grain. Usually this is no more than 1 to 4 pounds per 20 geese, which isn’t very much. Wait until geese are 6 to 8 weeks old before putting them outside without shelter at night, or build them a small shelter to which they can return at the end of the day.