grassy weed · perennial

How to Kill Torpedograss

Panicum repens

Herbicide sprayhard to controlIn lawn

What Torpedograss looks like

Coarse grass with broad, somewhat stiff leaves; deep purple or bronze seed heads in summer; spreads via tough underground rhizomes.

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Best approach: Herbicide spray

Torpedograss rhizomes can be 6+ feet deep — digging is futile. Multiple herbicide applications over 1-2 seasons is the only reliable approach.

Chemical treatment

Apply grassy herbicides (fluazifop or sethoxydim) during active growth in spring through summer. Multiple applications needed. Glyphosate is effective but will kill desirable grass.

Non-chemical management

Ensure proper drainage and avoid waterlogged conditions; maintain dense, competitive turf.

How to stop Torpedograss coming back

Ensure proper drainage and avoid waterlogged conditions; maintain dense, competitive turf.

Recommended products for Torpedograss

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 Torpedograss look like?

Coarse grass with broad, somewhat stiff leaves; deep purple or bronze seed heads in summer; spreads via tough underground rhizomes.

What's the best way to kill Torpedograss?

Herbicide spray. Torpedograss rhizomes can be 6+ feet deep — digging is futile. Multiple herbicide applications over 1-2 seasons is the only reliable approach.

Is Torpedograss hard to get rid of?

Torpedograss is rated hard to control. It usually requires multiple applications and a consistent plan.

How do I stop Torpedograss coming back?

Ensure proper drainage and avoid waterlogged conditions; maintain dense, competitive turf.

Other grassy weeds

Crabgrass

moderate · annual

Dallisgrass

hard · perennial

Goosegrass

moderate · annual

Annual Bluegrass (Poa annua)

moderate · annual

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