The Problem
Dallisgrass (Paspalum dilatatum) is a difficult-to-control, warm-season, rhizomatous, perennial grassy weed. Dallisgrass is native to South America and was introduced into this country as a forage crop. It was actually named for A. T. Dallis of LaGrange, Ga., who was an avid proponent for uses of this plant during the early 1900s. While an important pasture plant over the years, dallisgrass has become a very troublesome turf weed in many parts of the United States.
Historically, repeated applications of organic arsenicals (MSMA, DSMA) have been used with inconsistent results. The introduction of postemergence herbicides, such as Revolver® and Celsius® WG, have provided some activity on dallisgrass. In addition, Tribute® Total provides effective with 3 spot treatments control of dallisgrass. Recent research has shown that good to excellent control of dallisgrass can be achieved with a 3-spot treatment in bermudagrass and zoysiagrass turf, utilizing Tribute Total herbicide.
What To Look For
Dallisgrass is a large, course-textured, clump-forming, warm-season perennial weed. These clumps can be unsightly and will continue to increase in size if not controlled. Dallisgrass develops short, thick rhizomes and spreads via these rhizomes, as well as seed. Dallisgrass has a distinctive greyish-green color with rather large leaves, ¼-½-inch wide. Dallisgrass also produces a large seedhead and is a heavy seed producer.
The Solution
Tribute Total can be used on both bermudagrass and zoysiagrass. The following points need to be considered for success in controlling dallisgrass with Tribute Total.
- Application timing is critical for success for optimum dallisgrass control; applications outside the ideal timing will provide only dallisgrass suppression
- Initial application timing should be in the late summer/early fall while the dallisgrass is still actively growing and not under stress (e.g., water stress/drought conditions)
- Applying a systemic herbicide, such as Tribute Total, during this period promotes movement of the active ingredients down to the roots, aiding in effective control
- Follow up with a second application approximately 4-6 weeks later when the dallisgrass begins to recover; this second application is critical to obtain successful control
- A third application is required in the spring if the dallisgrass clumps exhibit regrowth
- Methylated seed oil and ammonium sulfate should be added to the spray mixture; this will aid in absorption of the active ingredient into the dallisgrass leaves
- Always read and follow label directions
Additional resources
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Solution sheet - Dalligrass |
