April 29, 2025

10 Tips for Getting Rid of Crabgrass for Good

Crabgrass can turn a beautiful, lush lawn into a patchy, unruly mess if left unchecked. This stubborn weed thrives in warm weather and can quickly take over bare spots and thinning grass. But don’t worry—getting rid of crabgrass permanently is possible with some smart planning and consistent effort. Here are 10 proven tips to help you eliminate crabgrass for good and keep your lawn looking its best.

1. Apply a Pre-Emergent Herbicide in Early Spring
Timing is everything when it comes to crabgrass control. Pre-emergent herbicides prevent crabgrass seeds from germinating. Apply one in early spring, just as soil temperatures reach about 55°F (often when forsythias or dogwoods begin to bloom). Water it in well to activate it, and you'll stop crabgrass before it even has a chance to sprout.

2. Maintain a Healthy, Thick Lawn
A thick, healthy lawn naturally crowds out weeds like crabgrass. Regular fertilization, proper mowing, and overseeding thin areas help create dense turf. When grass grows vigorously, it leaves little room for crabgrass to take hold.

3. Mow High
Crabgrass loves sunlight. Mowing your lawn higher (around 3 to 4 inches depending on the grass type) shades the soil and prevents crabgrass seeds from getting the light they need to germinate. Never cut more than one-third of the grass blade at a time to keep your lawn healthy.

4. Water Deeply, but Infrequently
Instead of frequent shallow watering, give your lawn a deep soak about once or twice a week. This encourages grass roots to grow deep into the soil, making them more resilient and better able to outcompete crabgrass, which prefers weaker, shallow-rooted turf.

5. Hand-Pull Crabgrass Early
If you notice young crabgrass plants before they have set seed, pull them by hand. It's easier to remove when the soil is moist. Try to get the whole root system to prevent regrowth. Removing them early helps stop the spread and reduces next year's seed bank.


6. Use Post-Emergent Herbicides Carefully
If crabgrass has already sprouted, spot-treat it with a post-emergent herbicide designed specifically for crabgrass. Apply it while the weeds are young (less than 3 inches tall) for the best results. Be sure to follow label directions to avoid harming your desirable grasses.

7. Fertilize at the Right Times
Feed your lawn in early fall and late spring. Proper fertilization strengthens your lawn and makes it harder for crabgrass to invade. Avoid heavy fertilization in summer, as this can sometimes favor weed growth over grass.

8. Patch Bare Spots Quickly
Crabgrass is opportunistic—it will quickly move into any bare or thin areas. Reseed these patches immediately and cover them with straw or mulch to protect the seed and help it establish before crabgrass can move in.

9. Aerate Your Lawn Annually
Compacted soil makes it difficult for healthy grass roots to grow but provides an easy spot for crabgrass to thrive. Core aeration once a year (preferably in fall) loosens the soil, improves water and nutrient penetration, and gives grass a better environment to flourish.

10. Stay Persistent and Patient
Crabgrass control is not a one-time effort. It often takes a full year or two of consistent management to significantly reduce or eliminate it. Be vigilant each season-apply pre-emergents, mow properly, and maintain a thick lawn. Over time, you’ll dramatically reduce crabgrass and enjoy a healthier, greener yard.

By following these ten tips, you can tackle crabgrass naturally and systematically. A strong, well-maintained lawn is your best defense against this invasive weed. With a little patience and persistence, you'll be able to enjoy a lush, crabgrass-free lawn year after year.