Goosegrass

Overview

Goosegrass (Eleusine indica), also known as silver crabgrass, is a summer annual grassy weed most problematic in zones 6-10. It thrives in compacted, heavy-traffic areas where turfgrass struggles — along sidewalks, around swing sets, and in worn paths across the lawn.

Identification

Low-growing, flattened rosette with coarse, dark green blades radiating from a distinctive white or silvery central crown. This pale center is the easiest way to distinguish goosegrass from crabgrass. Blades are flatter and darker than crabgrass, and the plant tolerates very close mowing.

Damage to Your Lawn

Goosegrass is an indicator of soil compaction. It crowds out turf in areas with heavy foot traffic, poor drainage, or compacted soil. Its flat growth habit allows it to survive mowing heights that would damage other weeds, making it persistent in high-traffic zones.

Control Strategy

Spring pre-emergent prevents goosegrass effectively. Goosegrass germinates 2-3 weeks after crabgrass (soil temp around 60-65°F), so standard pre-emergent applications are usually still active when goosegrass tries to germinate.

Post-emergent control is more difficult than crabgrass. Quinclorac provides some control but may require multiple applications. Hand-pulling is effective for isolated plants — grab the whole rosette at the white central crown and pull when soil is moist.

Address the root cause: Goosegrass indicates compaction. Core aeration in fall (Rule 8.1/8.3) reduces compaction and helps turfgrass reestablish in affected areas.