Goosegrass is a tough, flat-growing grassy weed with a silvery-white center. It loves compacted soil and high-traffic spots.
- Scientific name
- Eleusine indica
- Type
- Summer annual grass
- Most visible
- June–September
How to Identify Goosegrass
- Flattened stems with a whitish to silver center
- Grows in a tight rosette
- Zipper-like seed heads in 2–7 spikes
- Very hard to pull because of its tough root system
When It Shows Up in Oklahoma Lawns
Germinates later than crabgrass, once soil is warmer, and is common along paths, play areas, and compacted clay.
How to Control Goosegrass
- Time pre-emergent for later spring germination or use a second application
- Aerate compacted areas
- Spot-treat with a selective herbicide labeled for the weed and safe for your grass type, following the label exactly
- Keep turf thick with proper mowing height, watering, and feeding so seedlings can't establish