What is Nimblewill and How to Control It?
Nimblewill, scientifically known as Muhlenbergia schreberi, is a persistent and invasive grass that can quickly take over your lawn and garden. It’s a common sight in the Southeastern United States, particularly in areas with warm, humid climates.
What does nimblewill look like?
Nimblewill is a low-growing, clumping grass that can spread aggressively through both seed and rhizomes. Its leaves are typically 2-6 inches long and narrow, with a distinct, bluish-green color. The stems, often called culms, can reach up to 12 inches in height, and they have a slightly reddish hue.
Why is nimblewill a problem?
Nimblewill is considered a weed for several reasons:
- It crowds out desirable plants: Nimblewill's aggressive growth habit allows it to quickly outcompete your lawn grasses and other ornamental plants.
- It's difficult to control: Nimblewill's deep roots and ability to reproduce both through seeds and rhizomes make it a challenging weed to eradicate.
- It can cause allergies: The pollen from nimblewill can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.
How can you identify nimblewill?
Here are some key features to help you identify nimblewill:
- Leaf shape: Nimblewill leaves are narrow and pointed, with a distinct bluish-green color.
- Stems: The stems are reddish in color and can grow up to 12 inches tall.
- Growth habit: Nimblewill forms dense clumps that can spread rapidly.
How to control nimblewill
Several methods can be used to control nimblewill:
- Hand-pulling: For small infestations, you can try hand-pulling the weeds. Be sure to remove the entire plant, including the roots.
- Herbicides: Herbicides containing glyphosate or triclopyr are effective in controlling nimblewill. Apply these herbicides to the foliage of the weed, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
- Cultural control: Practices like proper lawn care and choosing lawn grasses resistant to nimblewill can help prevent infestations.
- Overseeding: If you have a large infestation, overseeding your lawn with a dense, healthy turfgrass can help outcompete the nimblewill.
Tips for effective nimblewill control:
- Time your application: The best time to apply herbicides is in the spring or fall when the weed is actively growing.
- Choose the right herbicide: Not all herbicides are created equal. Choose a product specifically labeled for nimblewill control.
- Follow the label instructions: Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for herbicide application rates and safety precautions.
- Be patient: It may take multiple applications of herbicides to completely eliminate nimblewill.
Prevention is key
The best way to avoid a nimblewill infestation is to prevent it in the first place. Here are some tips for preventing nimblewill:
- Choose resistant lawn grasses: Opt for lawn grasses known for their resistance to nimblewill, such as zoysia, centipede, or Bermuda.
- Maintain a healthy lawn: A healthy lawn is less susceptible to weed invasion. This includes proper mowing, fertilizing, and watering.
- Control other weeds: Controlling other weeds in your lawn can help prevent nimblewill from gaining a foothold.
Conclusion:
Nimblewill is a persistent weed that can be a nuisance to homeowners. Understanding how to identify and control it is crucial for maintaining a healthy and beautiful lawn. By implementing the tips and strategies outlined above, you can effectively manage nimblewill infestations and prevent future problems.