Quackgrass

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Quackgrass (Agropyron repens) is a perennial grass that spreads by seeds and rhizomes. Seed heads are 2- to 7-inch long spikes. Leaves are 4 to 8 inches long and about ¾ inch wide. Narrow projections (auricles) from leaf blades encircle stems. Quackgrass tolerates mowing and usually remains green even when dormant. 

Quackgrass growth habit (Ohio State Weed Laboratory, Ohio State University, Bugwood.org)Quackgrass growth habit.

(Photo: Ohio State Weed Laboratory, The Ohio State

University, Bugwood.org)

Close-up of quackgrass auricle (Dewey, Utah State University, Bugwood.org)Close-up of quackgrass auricle.

(Photo: Steve Dewey, Utah State University, Bugwood.org)

   

Management:

  • Avoid cultivation, which spreads rhizomes.
  • Chemical control is difficult because rhizome buds may remain dormant so they are unaffected by systemic herbicides. Repeat applications are often necessary.

   

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