Scientific Name:Â
Echinochloa crus-galli
What is Barnyard Grass?
Barnyard Grass (Echinochloa crus-galli) is a fast-growing summer annual weed commonly found in disturbed soils, roadside edges, turf areas, cropping land, and irrigated environments. It grows upright to 300–1500 mm tall and is easily recognised by its coarse, hairless stems and prominent green, spike-like seed head.
This weed thrives in warm conditions and moist soils, allowing it to spread quickly in unmanaged or stressed areas. Because of its rapid growth and prolific seed production, Barnyard Grass can become competitive very quickly and dominate open ground.
Signs of Damage & What It Does to Turf
You may be dealing with Barnyard Grass if you notice:
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Tall, upright clumps growing faster than surrounding turf
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Coarse, bright green leaves that stand out from desirable grass species
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Dense, spike-like seed heads emerging in summer
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Quick spreading in moist or over-irrigated areas
Impact on Turf & Landscapes
Barnyard Grass can cause multiple issues, including:
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Competing aggressively with turf for water, nutrients and sunlight
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Producing large seed heads that quickly spread infestations
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Creating uneven turf surfaces due to its tall growth habit
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Reducing turf density and quality
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Outcompeting slower-growing turf during peak summer periods
If left unmanaged, Barnyard Grass can overtake thin or stressed turf areas within a single season.
How to Control Barnyard Grass
Control requires a combination of cultural, mechanical, and chemical methods depending on the severity of infestation.
Cultural Control
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Maintain strong, healthy turf to prevent weed establishment
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Reduce excessive irrigation, which encourages weed germination
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Improve soil fertility where necessary to help turf outcompete weeds
Mechanical Control
Chemical Control
Use herbicides registered for selective grass weed control.
For severe or widespread infestations, a repeat application may be necessary.
Ongoing Monitoring
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Scout during early summer to catch new seedlings early
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Prevent seed formation to reduce future spread
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Reassess turf health to minimise reinfestation
Common Questions About Barnyard Grass (FAQs)
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Why does Barnyard Grass spread so quickly? It grows rapidly in warm weather and produces abundant seeds, allowing it to colonise open areas fast.
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Does mowing remove it? Mowing reduces seed production but does not kill the plant.
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Where is Barnyard Grass usually found? Roadsides, turf areas, agricultural fields, and anywhere with warm temperatures and moist soil.
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When is the best time to treat it? Early summer, before seed heads form, when the weed is actively growing.
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Is it harmful to turf? Yes, it competes heavily with turf and causes thinning and uneven surfaces.
