Paspalum dilatatum
grassy weedUSDA zones 7–10Active: spring, summer, fallPerennial clumping grass common in southern lawns. Forms unsightly bunches that grow faster than surrounding turf. Very difficult to eradicate.
Coarse clumps growing taller than surrounding turf; seed heads with black spots (ergot fungus); grows from a central crown.
Dense turf helps compete but rarely eliminates established dallisgrass. Focus on prevention.
When: Ongoing turf management
Dig individual clumps with a spade, removing all root material. Fill holes with soil and seed.
When: Remove in spring before seed heads form
Cover with clear plastic for 4-6 weeks during summer to kill clumps.
When: Apply during peak summer heat
No selective option for most turf types. Carefully paint or spot-spray clumps and reseed.
When: Treat actively growing clumps; wait 7 days before reseeding
Active ingredient: Glyphosate — e.g. Roundup
Grass safety: always match herbicides to your grass species — products safe on Kentucky bluegrass can kill St. Augustine or centipede. Lawn Guardian checks this automatically against your lawn profile.
Lawn Guardian turns this guidance into a schedule timed to your USDA zone and this week's actual weather — and adapts every time you log what you've done.
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