Goosegrass

Weeds

silver crabgrass, silver foot, crows foot grass

Elusine indica

Photos

goosegrass1.jpg

Goosegrass is a warm season summer annual grassy weed that predominates in exposed, trafficked conditions. Goosegrass germinates about two weeks later than smooth crabgrass. Goosegrass can be identified by the whitish stems at the base that are extremely compressed (flattened). Goosegrass can tolerate heavy traffic, dry compacted soils and low mowing heights.

  • Crops Affected: turf

    Management

    Increasing mowing height is most effective at reducing the competitiveness of goosegrass. Increased mowing heights buffer soil temperatures in the spring and reduce the amount of sunlight that penetrates the turf canopy. Long-term removal of goosegrass will likely not be possible without relieving soil compaction.

    Similar Species

    Goosegrass is most often confused with smooth crabgrass. The compressed leaf sheaths and whitish base are good distinguishing characteristics.

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