How do I control hairy-seed paspalum (Paspalum pubiflorum) in a home lawn in Albemarle County Virginia?
Recommendation: In a cool-season lawn like tall fescue, MSMA applied at 10 d intervals will suppress Paspalum but many treatments will be needed to completely control the weed. MSMA can discolor desirable lawn turf but the effects are short lived. An alternative is to spot treat Paspalum with a nonselective chemical such as glyphosate (roundup) and reseed or sod the area where turfgrass and weed die. Two treatments of glyphosate at 2-wk intervals is a minimum to kill Paspalum, three is recommended. Keep the area well watered to encourage regrowth of Paspalum prior to the next glyphosate treatment. Always read and follow label instructions when using pesticides.
