grassy weed · perennial

How to Kill Quackgrass (Couch Grass)

Elymus repens

Herbicide sprayhard to controlLawn & beds

What Quackgrass (Couch Grass) looks like

Fine-textured grass similar to perennial ryegrass but coarser; flat, grayish-green leaves; distinctive seed heads with spikelets arranged in a zigzag pattern.

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Best approach: Herbicide spray

Quackgrass spreads by rhizomes — digging breaks them into pieces that each regrow. Spot-spray with glyphosate and reseed, or use a selective grassy weed herbicide.

Chemical treatment

Apply a grassy herbicide (fluazifop or sethoxydim) in spring or fall when actively growing. Glyphosate for spot treatment is effective but will kill desirable grass too.

Non-chemical management

Prevent rhizome fragments from spreading during renovation; maintain dense, healthy turf.

How to stop Quackgrass (Couch Grass) coming back

Prevent rhizome fragments from spreading during renovation; maintain dense, healthy turf.

Recommended products for Quackgrass (Couch Grass)

Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer

Pendimethalingranular$40–$50
View on Amazon

Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer

Pendimethalingranular$20–$28 (10 lb bag, covers 5,000 sq ft)
View on Amazon

The Andersons Barricade Professional-Grade Granular

0.48% Prodiaminegranular$80–$95
View on Amazon

The Andersons Barricade Professional-Grade Granular

0.48% Prodiaminegranular$45–$50 (18 lb bag, covers 5,800 sq ft)
View on Amazon

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FAQ

What does Quackgrass (Couch Grass) look like?

Fine-textured grass similar to perennial ryegrass but coarser; flat, grayish-green leaves; distinctive seed heads with spikelets arranged in a zigzag pattern.

What's the best way to kill Quackgrass (Couch Grass)?

Herbicide spray. Quackgrass spreads by rhizomes — digging breaks them into pieces that each regrow. Spot-spray with glyphosate and reseed, or use a selective grassy weed herbicide.

Is Quackgrass (Couch Grass) hard to get rid of?

Quackgrass (Couch Grass) is rated hard to control. It usually requires multiple applications and a consistent plan.

How do I stop Quackgrass (Couch Grass) coming back?

Prevent rhizome fragments from spreading during renovation; maintain dense, healthy turf.

Other grassy weeds

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moderate · annual

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moderate · annual

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