Bermuda Grass Control
In our last article, we discussed Bermuda grass and its many benefits, but the flip side of the coin is although this grass is hailed for its toughness there are many persons who find Bermuda grass to be a nuisance and would much rather get rid of it. Bermuda grass is viewed by some as an invasive weed.
What I found to be most interesting is that Bermuda grass is not only grown as a turf but also as a” forge for livestock”. Its believed that this grass originated from tropical Africa and not Bermuda as some would think. It’s also believed that this turf’s home may also be”Eurasia, the Indo-Malaysian area, and the Bengal region of India/Bangladesh”. Below we will continue our discussion on how to get rid of Bermuda grass.
How to Get Rid of Bermuda Grass
There are a few methods that have proven to be effective to get rid of Bermuda grass, some of these methods are as followed.
- Hand weeding or manual weeding
- Solarization
- Cultivating Bermuda grass
- Using Vinegar
- Systemic Herbicides
- Mulching
Hand weeding for Bermuda Control
Yes, I know all too well like you that we live in modern times when for the most part we don’t have to conform to the old way of doing things when it comes to weed control. Weeding by hand or manual weeding has almost become a thing of the past although hand weeding is still required in some instances.
Manual removing weeds can be so laborers and time-consuming, with hand weeding there is no need to use harmful chemicals. Hand weeding may benefit depending on the size of the area that is to be weeded, if it’s a small area that’s manageable then hand weeding may be just the thing.
But if the area is too large especially if you’re going solo then it’s best to try one of the other methods, the disadvantage, however, is when removing Bermuda grass manually the grassroots should be removed also which means driving your cutlass or weeding tool into the ground to remove the entire grass ( grass blades and roots).
Also, there is a chance when using this method that a small portion of the stolon that was not successfully dug up can encourage Bermuda grass regrowth. Your job, therefore, is to keep a watch on the area to see where the grass begins to emerge and remove it right away and in the right way by removing the grass from its root.
Solarization For Bermuda Control
Solarization is another environmentally safe way to control the spread and the growth of Bermuda grass, it’s a very simple method that promises good success. However, patience is needed for this method to work but I assure you that once this technique is implemented properly you will be happy with the results. For more on how solarization is done, you can read it here.
Cultivating Bermuda Grass
Cultivating Bermuda grass will bring control, wait until there is a long period of drought. With a garden spade or rototiller break up the lawn by digging to a depth of 6-8 inches. Wait for about two weeks for the first set of grass that was dug up to dry, then repeat this procedure again. Monitor for any signs of regrowth and repeat. You may have to do this several times before Bermuda grass is completely dead.
Using Vinegar to Control Bermuda grass
Yes, you heard it right vinegar is effective in the removal of Bermuda, 10% solution sprayed directly on the grass will bring elimination. However, be careful because if vinegar drifts to plants that are nearby will cause damage so caution should be taken if vinegar is used. It’s best to apply vinegar on a day when the weather is calm to avoid drifting off or coming in contact with other plants.
Systemic Herbicides for Bermuda grass control
The active ingredient in systemic herbicides is glyphosate, once this chemical is applied to the plant’s foliage (leaves) it absorbs through the leaves and is translocated or moves throughout the entire plant via the plant’s system. Even the grassroots is not spared bringing complete elimination of Bermuda grass.
When applying herbicides make sure that you’re wearing gloves, goggles, and a mask to avoid inhaling, apply systemic herbicides on days when it’s not windy or rainy. Windy weather will cause chemical drift off that can damage plants nearby, if rain is forecast wait until it passes because the chemical can be washed off weakening the effect. For success when using systemic herbicides read and follow the manufactures direction for the best results.
Mulching to Eliminate Bermuda grass
The use of mulch in the landscape can bring such a finished and detailed look, besides being used for beautification mulch has so many other benefits. Mulching your Bermuda grass will bring control and elimination, Cover the entire area that’s to be controlled with landscape fabric, and make sure that the entire area is covered and there are no gaps.
Now spread 6-8 inches of mulch, wood bark, wood chips, or other types of mulching material on the landscape fabric, in a about a month this length of time will cause the build-up of moisture along with the heat and no light to kill the Bermuda grass.
The final word on how to get rid of Bermuda grass
When it comes to this grass type there is mixed emotion, while some adore it there are others who don’t care for it. If you are one of those who don’t care for Bermuda grass and are looking for ways to bring control then look no further, you have come to the right place. Now that you have gotten the know-how you can now strike back by using any one of these methods of preference. You will be so happy with the results as you win the war on Bermuda grass. With that said let’s get to work.
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About the author
Norman loves being in the garden, both at home and for his job....
he is 'Natures Little helper' being outdoors, growing his vegetables and flowers from an early age.
Now having spent over 22 years in the profession he want to give some of his knowledge to others...
his vast array of hints and tips you will find scattered over this site will help you no end growing plants in your garden.
Hi Norman. Thanks for the interesting article! Bermuda grass is a common turf grass for elevated, humid, and dry environments. However, the features that make it such an excellent choice for those difficult situations also make it difficult to eradicate if it gets into areas where you don’t want it to spread.
I believe that bermuda grass weed can be difficult to control in lawns and flower beds because it grows quickly and takes over the lawn.
Hello Martina you are so right but the good part is with the know how and some effort this grass can be controlled. Thanks for stopping by and commenting. All the best to you.