Crabgrass and invasive grassy weeds can feel like a never-ending battle in your lawn. 🌱
But understanding the difference between them is the first step toward better control.
In this video, Nate Wickemeyer, Quality Assurance Expert at Oasis Turf & Tree, explains the key differences between crabgrass and invasive grassy weeds like Johnson Grass, Dallisgrass, and Field Paspalum—and what you can realistically do to manage them.
Grassy weeds are invasive grasses that disrupt the uniform look of your lawn. Some are annuals, like crabgrass, which die off each season, while others are perennials, meaning they come back year after year and are much harder to eliminate.
What You’ll Learn:
✅ What qualifies as a grassy weed
✅ The difference between annual vs perennial grassy weeds
✅ How crabgrass can be prevented and treated
✅ Why perennial grassy weeds are difficult to control
✅ How to identify common invasive grasses
Key Takeaways:
❗Crabgrass (annual) can be prevented with a spring pre-emergent and treated post-emergence
❗Perennial grassy weeds (like Johnson Grass & Dallisgrass) cannot be selectively treated without harming your lawn
❗Johnson Grass often has a white stripe down the leaf blade and can grow very tall
❗Dallisgrass & Field Paspalum grow in clumps with wide blades
❗Seeds can spread easily and remain in the soil for years
What You Can Do:
🛠️️ Maintain a proper mowing height to reduce visibility
🛠️️ Hand-pull when possible (with some limitations)
🛠️️ Aerate and overseed with turf-type tall fescue to crowd out weeds
🛠️️ Focus on building a thick, healthy lawn—your best long-term defense
Nate Wickemeyer
Nate has been with Oasis Turf & Tree for 10.5 years, bringing extensive experience and leadership to the company. As a Master I & II Director of Operations, Nate leads teams and oversees day-to-day operations to help deliver consistent, high-quality service to Oasis customers.
