Quackgrass (Elymus repens) is a tough, invasive perennial weed that can quickly take over your lawn or garden. Its long, creeping rhizomes make it particularly difficult to control, but with the right selective herbicide, you can manage and eliminate it without harming your desired plants. This guide will help you choose the best selective herbicides to control quackgrass in your yard.

Best Selective Herbicides for Quackgrass

1. Ornamec 170 Herbicide (Fluazifop-p-butyl)

Ornamec 170 is a selective herbicide that is effective against quackgrass and other grassy weeds. It works by inhibiting the production of essential fatty acids in the plant, leading to its death. Ornamec is highly effective in controlling quackgrass in ornamental landscapes and lawns without harming most desirable plants.

This herbicide is ideal for treating grassy weeds in turfgrass and ornamental plants. It is applied post-emergence, meaning it is effective once the quackgrass is actively growing.

2. Poast (Sethoxydim)

Poast is another selective herbicide used for the control of grassy weeds like quackgrass. It targets grasses by disrupting their cell membranes, which inhibits their ability to produce essential proteins and fats. Poast can be safely used in most turf and ornamental plants.

It is a post-emergent herbicide, so it is best applied when the quackgrass is actively growing. Poast is an excellent choice for lawns where you want to eliminate quackgrass without damaging the surrounding grass.

3. Fusilade II (Fluazifop-p-butyl)

Fusilade II is a selective herbicide that targets perennial grasses like quackgrass while leaving broadleaf plants unaffected. It works by inhibiting the production of a specific enzyme essential for the plant’s growth.

Fusilade II is highly effective in controlling quackgrass in lawns and gardens. It works well when applied post-emergence, killing quackgrass as it grows, without affecting your desirable grass or plants.

4. Quinclorac (Drive)

Quinclorac is a selective herbicide that controls a wide variety of grassy weeds, including quackgrass. It works by disrupting the plant’s growth hormones, which causes abnormal growth and eventual death of the weed.

Quinclorac is effective when applied during the early stages of quackgrass growth. It is ideal for use in lawns, as it selectively targets the quackgrass without harming most types of turfgrass.

5. Acclaim Extra (Fenoxaprop-p-ethyl)

Acclaim Extra is a selective herbicide that targets grassy weeds like quackgrass without affecting broadleaf plants or other grasses. It is absorbed through the leaves and then moves down into the roots, killing the entire plant.

Acclaim Extra is highly effective for controlling quackgrass in established turf and ornamental grass areas. It is a post-emergent herbicide, so it is most effective when quackgrass is actively growing.

6. Rout (Oxadiazon)

Rout is a pre-emergence selective herbicide that targets grassy weeds like quackgrass before they can establish themselves. It is ideal for use on lawns where quackgrass is likely to appear, as it prevents germination from seeds.

Rout can be used to keep quackgrass from becoming a problem in your lawn, making it a good preventative measure.

7. Snapshot (Isoxaben + Trifluralin)

Snapshot combines two herbicides—Isoxaben and Trifluralin—to provide both pre-emergence and early post-emergence control of quackgrass. It works by preventing the germination of quackgrass seeds while also controlling small emerged weeds.

Snapshot is an excellent choice for lawns and ornamental areas that need long-lasting protection from quackgrass.

8. Tenacity (Mesotrione)

Tenacity is a selective herbicide that controls a variety of weeds, including quackgrass. It works by inhibiting the photosynthesis process in weeds, causing them to yellow and die.

Tenacity is effective both as a pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicide, offering flexibility in its application.

9. Killzall (Glyphosate)

Killzall is a non-selective herbicide that can be used for a total kill of quackgrass in areas where you do not want any plants to survive. While not selective, it can be spot-treated to kill quackgrass without harming surrounding plants.

Use caution when applying Killzall around desirable plants, as it will kill anything it touches.

10. Pramitol (Prometryn)

Pramitol is a pre-emergent selective herbicide used for controlling quackgrass in non-crop areas. It works by preventing weed seeds from germinating and can be applied before or after the planting of crops.

Pramitol is an effective way to keep quackgrass under control in areas where planting is not required.

Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Selective Herbicide for Quackgrass

When selecting a selective herbicide for quackgrass control, consider the following factors:

1. Type of Herbicide

Selective herbicides are designed to kill specific types of plants, like grasses, while leaving other plants unharmed. Choose one that is labeled as effective against quackgrass, but safe for your lawn or garden.

2. Application Timing

Most selective herbicides are most effective when applied during the active growth of quackgrass. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the timing of application for best results.

3. Grass Type

Some herbicides are more effective in certain types of turfgrass. Make sure the herbicide you choose is compatible with your lawn or garden grass type to avoid damage.

4. Environmental Impact

Consider the environmental impact of the herbicide. Some herbicides are more environmentally friendly than others, so look for those labeled as less toxic to wildlife and beneficial insects.

5. Cost

Herbicides can vary in price. While some of the more effective herbicides may be more expensive, the results often justify the investment. Look for options that suit both your budget and your weed control needs.

Best Selective Herbicide For Quackgrass FAQs

• What is the best time to apply herbicide for quackgrass? Herbicides should be applied when quackgrass is actively growing, typically in the spring or early summer.
• Can I use selective herbicides on my lawn? Yes, selective herbicides are designed to target quackgrass without harming most lawn grasses.
• Are there organic options for controlling quackgrass? Organic options like vinegar-based herbicides or manual removal can be effective but may not be as reliable as chemical options.
• How long does it take for selective herbicides to work on quackgrass? Selective herbicides typically take 7-14 days to show results, depending on the product and environmental conditions.
• Can I use Poast on my garden? Yes, Poast is safe for use in gardens and ornamental landscapes, as it specifically targets grassy weeds.
• Will Fusilade II harm my turfgrass? No, Fusilade II is selective and will not harm most turfgrass species when used as directed.
• How can I prevent quackgrass from returning? Regular maintenance, including mowing and applying pre-emergent herbicides, can help prevent future quackgrass infestations.

Conclusion

Quackgrass can be a persistent weed, but with the right selective herbicide, you can successfully control it without harming your desirable plants. Whether you choose products like Ornamec 170, Poast, or Fusilade II, it’s important to follow the application instructions carefully and treat quackgrass during its active growth stages. With the proper care, your lawn and garden can be quackgrass-free, allowing your desired plants to thrive.