Efficient Management of Velvetgrass Invasion: Strategies for Removing Velvetgrass from Lawns
Velvetgrass, also known as Yorkshire fog, creeping soft grass, and woolly soft grass, is a persistent invasive species that can be found in much of the western United States. This tufted perennial grass, with grayish green foliage and slightly flattened stems that are lightly hairy, is a common weed in lawns, ditches, disturbed soil, and even cropland. Its prolific, lightweight seed is easily dispersed, making it a challenge to control.
Effective control and eradication of Velvetgrass involve a combination of chemical and non-chemical methods, often repeated over time to ensure suppression and prevent regrowth.
Chemical methods
Herbicides with different sites of action should be used for effective control and to prevent resistance. According to EPA pesticide labels, herbicides such as CASORON CS (active ingredient not specified here but indicated for use on difficult weeds) and TIDE HEXAZINONE 75 WDG can suppress Velvetgrass populations. However, suppression means reduction in population or vigor, not total control, so multiple treatments or complementary control strategies are needed. If resistance to one herbicide group is suspected, alternate or combine with other herbicide groups to improve efficacy and prevent resistant escapes.
Non-chemical methods
Manual removal (digging out plants including roots) or mowing before seed set can reduce Velvetgrass population. Improving lawn and garden health through proper fertilization, irrigation, and soil management favors desirable plant species that outcompete Velvetgrass. Avoid disturbances that create conditions favorable for Velvetgrass invasion.
Because Velvetgrass sets seed prolifically and can be persistent, integrated weed management—combining herbicides, physical removal, and cultural practices—is most effective. No specific grazing or biological control methods targeted directly at Velvetgrass are noted in the provided results. The EPA documents emphasize herbicide use with attention to resistance management.
In summary, for effective control of Velvetgrass:
- Use appropriate herbicides like Hexazinone or other EPA-registered products, rotating modes of action.
- Employ non-chemical removal and cultural practices to reduce weed vigor.
- Repeat treatments over time to manage escapes and prevent reinfestation.
Allowing velvetgrass to persist will inhibit the growth of tree seedlings and native plants. Getting rid of velvetgrass on your property will help encourage native grasses and prevent it from spreading. Soil tests can determine pH and fertility, which are important for a healthy lawn.
Bonnie L. Grant, a professional landscaper with a Certification in Urban Gardening, has been gardening and writing for 15 years, and has a passion for edible landscaping. Always follow safety directions on product packaging when using herbicides. A thick, healthy lawn is an effective defense against velvetgrass.
References:
[1] EPA. (n.d.). CASORON CS Technical Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/casoron-cs-technical-fact-sheet
[2] EPA. (n.d.). TIDE HEXAZINONE 75 WDG Technical Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/tide-hexazinone-75-wdg-technical-fact-sheet
[3] EPA. (n.d.). Holcus lanatus (Velvetgrass) Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/holcus-lanatus-velvetgrass-fact-sheet
- To prevent velvetgrass from spreading and inhibiting the growth of native plants, consider adopting a home-and-garden lifestyle that includes regular maintenance and the use of appropriate herbicides like Hexazinone, in combination with non-chemical removal methods and cultural practices.
- In addition to maintaining a thick, healthy home lawn via proper fertilization, irrigation, and soil management to favor desirable grasses, gardening methods such as manual removal (digging out plants including roots) or mowing before seed set can also contribute significantly to velvetgrass population control.
