How to Get Rid of Bahai Grass
Bahia grass is a warm season grass that is resistant to drought, insects, disease and various types of fertile and infertile soils. This grass is not an aggressive plant, but its roots can go down to 8 feet. Originating in South America, Bahia grass was introduced into the states in the 1930s as cattle feed. Frequent mowing will help keep this grass in control, but sometimes it shows up in unlikely or inconvenient places. Fortunately, this plant has proven to have a low tolerance to herbicides. It rarely takes more than a few treatments to get rid of this grass, but it normally is not killed completely with one treatment. Keep an eye on this plant after herbicidal treatments. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Use the hedge clippers to trim the Bahia grass as close to the roots as possible. This will remove the bulk of the plant and allow you to see more clearly into the ground and find out what the challenge will involve.
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2
Dig around the plant to extract as much of the trunk and root system as is physically possible. Keep in mind these roots can extend for up to 8 feet, so do not expect to retrieve the entire root system. It is only necessary to remove the trunk from the roots. The herbicides will take care of the rest. However, extracting the accessible root system will increase your chance of success with herbicidal treatments.
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3
Put the plant and any accessible roots in the wheelbarrow. Make sure to pick up any small bits of roots as well to carry to the burning pit. You do not want this grass to re-root itself and begin to grow.
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4
Sprinkle the herbicide onto the soil after plant extraction. If the herbicide is a spray, use generous amounts, especially on the root ends. This will encourage the roots to drink the herbicide, thereby killing them.
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Till the herbicide into the soil. This is necessary regardless of using granules or sprays. The root system must be able to absorb the herbicide from the soil as well.
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6
Dump the extracted plants and roots into the burn pit.
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7
Burn the plants. Do not walk away from the fire pit. Have a garden hose available in case of an emergency to douse a spreading fire.
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Repeat in the autumn, if necessary.
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Tips & Warnings
Perform the initial treatment in the spring, so tyou can repeat in the fall, if necessary. Reduce the water that surrounds the area to further aid in the destruction of this plant.
Use hedge clippers with caution to avoid injury.
Do not ingest or make direct contact with any herbicide. Failure to do so may result in injury. Call poison control immediately if ingested. Keep out of reach of children.
Be careful when burning any object. Maintain a safe distance to avoid being burned.
