{"id":43769,"date":"2026-06-02T12:40:54","date_gmt":"2026-06-02T15:40:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/?p=43769"},"modified":"2026-08-07T21:08:08","modified_gmt":"2026-08-08T00:08:08","slug":"how-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Get Rid of Carpetgrass"},"content":{"rendered":"<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>\u2022 Carpetgrass thrives in moist, low-fertility, acidic soil. Fixing those conditions is one of the most effective long-term controls.<br>\u2022 Chemical post-emergent herbicides like Celsius WG are the most reliable option for serious infestations, but always check the label to confirm carpetgrass is listed.<br>\u2022 Maintaining a thick, healthy lawn is your best defense against carpetgrass returning after treatment.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Carpetgrass spreads aggressively in moist, acidic, low-fertility soil. In many yards, carpetgrass shows up alongside bigger issues like thin turf and soil imbalance. Fixing those underlying problems is key to long-term control.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This guide will help you identify this weed, kill it, and keep it from coming back.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Getting rid of carpetgrass takes the right timing, the right products, and consistent follow-through. LawnStarter&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnstarter.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=fertilization\">lawn treatment services<\/a> can handle the process for you.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-18c10bd9-f613-4968-aeec-7916a4eeb229\" data-linktodivider=\"false\" data-showtext=\"show\" data-hidetext=\"hide\" data-scrolltype=\"auto\" data-enablesmoothscroll=\"false\" data-initiallyhideonmobile=\"false\" data-initiallyshow=\"true\"><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header\" style=\"text-align: left; \"> \t\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-title\" style=\"\">Table of Contents<\/div> \t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-extra-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-container ub_table-of-contents-1-column\"> \t\t\t\t<ul style=\"\"><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass\/#0-how-to-identify-carpetgrass\" style=\"\">How to Identify Carpetgrass<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass\/#2-7-ways-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass-from-diy-fixes-to-chemical-treatments\" style=\"\">7 Ways to Get Rid of Carpetgrass<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass\/#11-how-to-prevent-carpetgrass\" style=\"\">How to Prevent Carpetgrass<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass\/#12-faqs\" style=\"\">FAQs<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <h2 id=\"0-how-to-identify-carpetgrass\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Identify Carpetgrass<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make sure carpetgrass is the weed in your lawn before treating it. Treating the wrong weed wastes time, money, and product. <\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Grassy weeds require different herbicides than broadleaf weeds, so a correct ID before you buy anything could save you from a frustrating and costly mistake.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are 2 types of carpetgrass that look slightly different:<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Type<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Leaf Width<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Heights<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Narrowleaf carpetgrass<\/strong> (<em>Axonopus affinis<\/em> or <em>Axonopus fissifolius<\/em>)<\/td><td>Narrow blades (1\/16\u20131\/4 inch wide)<\/td><td>Grows 10 to 30 inches tall<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Broadleaf carpetgrass<\/strong> (<em>Axonopus compressus<\/em>)<\/td><td>Wider blades (1\/6\u20133\/8 inch wide)<\/td><td>Grows up to 6 inches tall<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Source: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ctahr.hawaii.edu\/oc\/freepubs\/pdf\/CoverCrops\/carpetgrass.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">University of Hawaii at Manoa<\/a><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not confuse broadleaf carpetgrass with broadleaf weeds in general. Both types listed above are grassy weeds.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use these identifying features to tell carpetgrass apart from other grassy weeds:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth pattern:<\/strong> Dense, carpet-like mat that spreads aggressively<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Seed stalks:<\/strong> Y-shaped seed heads up to 12 inches tall in summer, sometimes with a third seed head below the Y<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Blade tips:<\/strong> Distinctive boat-shaped appearance<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Grass sheath:<\/strong> Open sheath with hairs along the edge<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"1-how-carpetgrass-differs-from-similar-grassy-weeds\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Carpetgrass Differs from Similar Grassy Weeds<\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Carpetgrass is most often confused with 2 other grasses: centipedegrass (a desirable lawn grass in the South) and crabgrass (a weed). Getting this wrong means treating for the wrong plant, so here is a quick way to tell them apart:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Carpetgrass vs. centipedegrass:<\/strong> These 2 look nearly identical at ground level. The telltale difference: Carpetgrass sends up tall, Y-shaped seed stalks (2-3 spikes) in summer. Centipedegrass produces only a single, unbranched seed spike that stays low and inconspicuous.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Carpetgrass vs. crabgrass:<\/strong> Crabgrass sprouts in a star-like pattern from a central point and tends to appear earlier in spring. Carpetgrass grows in a dense mat and emerges later when temperatures are consistently warm.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See Related: <\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/is-crabgrass-bad-for-lawn\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" class=\"text0-black visited:text-black\">Why Is Crabgrass Bad for the Lawn?<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/centipedegrass-lawn-maintenance-guide\/\">Centipedegrass Lawn Maintenance Guide<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"2-7-ways-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass-from-diy-fixes-to-chemical-treatments\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">7 Ways to Get Rid of Carpetgrass: From DIY Fixes to Chemical Treatments<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Carpetgrass is a perennial weed. It comes back year after year, unlike annual weeds that die after one season. It goes dormant in winter but fully regrows from the roots each spring unless you eliminate it completely.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are 7 methods to control carpetgrass. Start with the cultural fixes (methods 1\u20133) if your infestation is mild or you prefer to avoid chemicals. Jump to method 7 if carpetgrass has already taken over a significant portion of your lawn.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Method<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Best For<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Withhold water<\/td><td>Drought-tolerant grass<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Fertilize soil<\/td><td>Low-fertility soil<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Raise soil pH<\/td><td>Acidic soil (pH 5 to 6)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Spot treat with salt (<em>sodium chloride<\/em>)<\/td><td>Isolated areas only<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Spot treat with vinegar<\/td><td>Isolated areas only<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Spot treat with baking soda<\/td><td>Isolated areas only<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Use chemical herbicides<\/td><td>Serious infestations<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h3 id=\"3-1-withhold-water-to-dry-out-carpetgrass\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Withhold Water to Dry Out Carpetgrass<\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Carpetgrass loves moist soil, so one of the easiest methods is to stop watering wherever you see it growing. Once the weeds die and turn brown, rake them out.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This approach works only if you have a drought-tolerant grass type such as Bermudagrass, bahiagrass, or Zoysiagrass.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/best-drought-tolerant-grasses\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" class=\"text0-black visited:text-black\">10 Best Drought-Tolerant Grasses for Your Yard<\/a><\/p>    <h3 id=\"4-2-fertilize-your-lawn-to-smother-carpetgrass\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Fertilize Your Lawn to Smother Carpetgrass<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/12\/fertilize-lawn.jpg\" alt=\"Person spreading granular fertilizer on green lawn using handheld spreader, wearing protective gloves, ensuring even distribution for healthy grass growth.\" class=\"wp-image-150348\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/12\/fertilize-lawn.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/12\/fertilize-lawn-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/12\/fertilize-lawn-656x437.jpg 656w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/12\/fertilize-lawn-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/12\/fertilize-lawn-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fertilizing lawn with handheld spreader. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/fertilizing-lawn\/42873250\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">evgenyb<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here is a counterintuitive one: Carpetgrass <em>thrives<\/em> in low-fertility soil, so it actually has an advantage when your lawn lacks nutrients. Feed your lawn the nutrients it is missing, and you tip the scales.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A well-fed lawn grows thicker, which decreases colonization of most weeds. Just be careful not to overdo it. An over-fertilized lawn can cause more problems than it solves.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before adding anything, test the soil through your local university extension program to find out which nutrients it&#8217;s missing.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/why-soil-testing-is-important-for-lawn\/\">9 Reasons Why Soil Testing Is Important for the Lawn<\/a><\/p>    <h3 id=\"5-3-raise-your-soils-ph-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Raise Your Soil&#8217;s pH to Get Rid of Carpetgrass<\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your soil test will also reveal your soil&#8217;s pH and whether your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-tell-if-lawn-needs-lime\/\">lawn needs lime<\/a>. An <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/hgic.clemson.edu\/factsheet\/carpetgrass\/\">acidic soil pH<\/a> between 5 to 6 suits carpetgrass, but most lawns perform better when soil pH is between 6 to 7.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the soil pH is lower than your turfgrass needs to thrive, all you need to do is work a soil amendment called agricultural lime into your topsoil. You can purchase it (sometimes called &#8220;gardening lime&#8221; or just &#8220;lime&#8221;) at most garden supply centers or online.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Apply the lime application rate recommended by your soil test (never more than 50 pounds per 1,000 square feet in a single application).<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See Related: <\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/signs-acidic-soil-in-lawn\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" class=\"text0-black visited:text-black\">5 Signs of Acidic Soil in Your Lawn (Low pH)<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-change-soil-ph\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" class=\"text0-black visited:text-black\">How to Change Your Soil pH<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"6-4-spot-treat-carpetgrass-with-saltwater\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Spot-Treat Carpetgrass with Saltwater<\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Salt draws water from plants&#8217; leaves, stems, and roots, leading them to wilt, brown, and die. It can damage carpetgrass and many other weeds, as well as desirable plants. Experts don&#8217;t encourage it since applying salt too often or too much can harm the soil.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Warning:<\/strong> Only use this method on isolated spots like yard corners or carpetgrass in pavement cracks. Don&#8217;t apply in your lawn, flower beds, or near shrubs and trees.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make a solution with water and salt, add it to a watering can and pour the saltwater directly over the spots where carpetgrass has taken over. Apply when no rain is forecast for at least 3 days so the salt is not washed&nbsp;away.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/signs-salt-damage-lawn\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" class=\"text0-black visited:text-black\">Signs of Salt Damage on Your Lawn and Why They Happen<\/a><\/p>    <h3 id=\"7-5-douse-carpetgrass-with-vinegar-carefully\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Douse&nbsp;Carpetgrass with Vinegar (Carefully)<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/spray-vinegar-solution.jpg\" alt=\"close-up of a liquid being sprayed from a spray bottle outside with grass in the background\" class=\"wp-image-117802\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/spray-vinegar-solution.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/spray-vinegar-solution-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/spray-vinegar-solution-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/spray-vinegar-solution-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Spray vinegar solution. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/thriftyuk\/9251949940\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">athriftymrs.com<\/a> \/ Flickr \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0\/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Vinegar is one of the most common alternatives to chemical herbicides, and it damages pretty much any weed, including carpetgrass. It&#8217;s more effective on broadleaf weeds, but can also burn the leaves of carpetgrass and damage it severely if you apply it at the right time.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to the University of Maryland, vinegar with 5% to 10% acetic acid vinegar (5% is your regular kitchen vinegar) works for weed seedlings with 1 or 2 leaves. If carpetgrass already has 3 to 4 leaves, use industrial vinegar with <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umd.edu\/resource\/vinegar-alternative-glyphosate\/\" target=\"_blank\">20% acetic acid<\/a>.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It doesn&#8217;t kill the roots, so you&#8217;ll need to apply it several times to keep the plant from regrowing. Leave at least 2 weeks between applications, and always wear personal protective equipment.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Pro Tip: <\/strong>Adding yucca extract helps the herbicide stick better to the leaves and do more damage.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>WARNING: Vinegar kills all plants, not just weeds.<\/strong> Do not pour vinegar on your lawn or other plants you want to keep alive. <strong>Vinegar is best for carpetgrass in isolated areas, like the cracks in your driveway.<\/strong><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/does-vinegar-kill-weeds\/\">Does Vinegar Kill Weeds?<\/a><\/p>    <h3 id=\"8-6-sprinkle-baking-soda-on-carpetgrass\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Sprinkle Baking Soda&nbsp;on Carpetgrass<\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) works as a non-selective desiccant: its sodium content draws moisture out of plant tissue, which can stress or damage whatever it touches. It is most useful as a spot treatment on isolated patches, not as a lawn-wide carpetgrass killer.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To try it, lightly wet the carpetgrass so granules stick to the blades, then sprinkle baking soda directly on the weeds. Reapply every few weeks if the carpetgrass recovers.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>WARNING: <\/strong>Baking soda does not distinguish between carpetgrass and the grass you want to keep, so any amount strong enough to harm carpetgrass can also injure your desirable turf. <\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sodium also builds up in the soil rather than breaking down, which can degrade soil structure over time. <strong>Reserve this method for areas where you are not worried about the surrounding lawn, such as cracks, edges, or patches you plan to replant.<\/strong><\/p>    <h3 id=\"9-7-use-chemical-herbicides-on-carpetgrass\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Use Chemical Herbicides on Carpetgrass<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/weed-killer-herbicide.jpg?wsr\" alt=\"A man is spraying weed killer herbicide on green grass in a yard\" class=\"wp-image-138658\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/weed-killer-herbicide.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/weed-killer-herbicide-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/weed-killer-herbicide-656x437.jpg 656w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/weed-killer-herbicide-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/weed-killer-herbicide-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Spraying herbicides on grass. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/man-spraying-weed-killer-herbicide-on-green-grass-residential-yard-landscaper-using-pump-chemical-pesticide-sprayer-for-lawn-weed-control\/1393394403\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Scott Habermann<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When gentler methods fail, chemical herbicides are the most potent option. Look for a post-emergent herbicide that lists carpetgrass or grassy weeds on its label. <\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For best results with <a class=\"underline underline underline-offset-2 decoration-1 decoration-current\/40 hover:decoration-current focus:decoration-current\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-spray-lawns-for-weeds-safely-and-effectively\/\">weed spraying<\/a>, apply when carpetgrass is actively growing, typically late spring through summer, and avoid spraying when the grass is stressed by drought.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Herbicides that kill carpetgrass include:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><a target=\"_blank\" class=\"underline underline underline-offset-2 decoration-1 decoration-current\/40 hover:decoration-current focus:decoration-current\" href=\"https:\/\/www.us.envu.com\/golf-course-management\/products\/celsius-wg\">Celsius WG<\/a>: A selective herbicide that controls carpetgrass while staying safe on Bermudagrass, centipedegrass, St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass, and buffalograss. Do not use it on bahiagrass, seashore paspalum, or cool-season lawns such as tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass. <\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Finale XL T&amp;O: A non-selective, contact herbicide that kills all green vegetation it touches, including your lawn. Reserve it for spot treatments and edging in areas you plan to clear or replant.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always check the product label before purchasing to confirm carpetgrass is on the list of weeds controlled. Note that some chemicals may require a license for use in some states. For application instructions and frequency, follow the label on the specific product you buy.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See Related: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/gardening\/is-it-time-to-ditch-the-roundup-habit\/\">Glyphosate: Pros, Cons, and Alternatives<\/a><\/p>    <h3 id=\"10-home-remedies-worth-a-second-thought\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Home Remedies Worth a Second Thought<\/h3>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Borax<\/strong> relies on boron toxicity to injure plants, which is unreliable and can leave boron in the soil. Boron doesn&#8217;t break down like regular weed killers; where it accumulates after repeated applications it can lead to bare areas where <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/extension.illinois.edu\/blogs\/ilriverhort\/2018-04-08-homemade-herbicide-considerations-michelle-wiesbrook\">no vegetation will grow<\/a>.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Arm and Hammer detergent<\/strong> is mostly surfactants and sodium salts, not a tested herbicide. It may damage plants if used in enough amount, but it&#8217;s not selective. It will damage all plants and also harm the soil.<br><\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"11-how-to-prevent-carpetgrass\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Prevent Carpetgrass<\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"587\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Carpetgrass.jpeg?wsr\" alt=\"closeup image of carpet grass in a lawn\" class=\"wp-image-86605\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Carpetgrass.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Carpetgrass-300x220.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Carpetgrass-646x474.jpeg 646w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Carpetgrass-150x110.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Carpetgrass-768x564.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Carpetgrass. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Carpet_Grass.JPG\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sugeesh at Malayalam Wikipedia<\/a> \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/3.0\/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 3.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best defense against carpetgrass is to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-thicken-your-lawn\/\">thicken your lawn<\/a>. Dense turf simply leaves no room for it to establish. <\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you have killed the carpetgrass, you will likely have bare patches. Overseed those areas right away with your lawn&#8217;s grass type to prevent carpetgrass or other weeds from returning.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To keep your lawn healthy so it resists the invasion of carpetgrass:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Don\u2019t over-water.&nbsp;<\/strong>Only water when your grass shows signs of drought stress, such as fading color or leaf curling. Watering too frequently leads to overly moist soil, which leads to carpetgrass.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mow to the right height.&nbsp;<\/strong>Each type of grass has specific&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/lawn-mowing-tips-cut-grass\/\">mowing requirements<\/a>&nbsp;to keep it as healthy and thick as possible. Know your grass type and adjust your mower height accordingly.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Fertilize on the right schedule.&nbsp;<\/strong>Research your grass type to find out how many fertilizer applications it needs each year to grow its best. <\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Improve soil drainage <\/strong>by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/quick-guide-core-aeration\/\">aerating the lawn<\/a> or adding compost.<strong>&nbsp;<\/strong>If your soil has poor drainage, your lawn\u2019s roots will become weak, which will lead to weaker grass in general. Plus, poor drainage means wet soil, which is a breeding ground for carpetgrass. <\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In flower beds and gardens, use mulch as a physical barrier. It blocks weeds and benefits your plants in other ways too.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you have had problems with carpetgrass before, apply a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring before carpetgrass&#8217;s growing season. Look for pre-emergents labeled for use on carpetgrass.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See Related: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/summer-lawn-care-guide\/\">Summer Lawn Care Guide<\/a><\/p>    <h2 id=\"12-faqs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQs<\/h2>    <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-17799722046811101\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What Causes Carpetgrass to Grow in My Lawn?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Carpetgrass thrives in soil that is overly wet, acidic, and low in nutrients. It is especially persistent in Southern lawns, where warm, humid weather and wet soils create the perfect environment for it to spread.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-17799722046812694\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Does Carpetgrass Go Dormant in Winter?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, carpetgrass has very poor cold tolerance and is often the first grass to turn brown in fall and the last to green up in spring.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-17799722046818358\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can Carpetgrass Be Used as a Lawn Grass?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><p>Yes, in some areas it is intentionally grown as a low-maintenance turfgrass, especially in the Deep South where soils may be acidic and fertility is low. The tradeoff is appearance and performance: it can look patchy in cool weather, and it does not tolerate heavy traffic.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-17799722046813484\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Will Carpetgrass Spread to My Neighbor&#8217;s Yard?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">It can. Carpetgrass spreads by above-ground stolons, so it may creep across property lines, especially into thin, moist turf. Edging can slow but not always stop it. If both yards are affected, coordinated treatment is worth discussing.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>    <h2 id=\"13-let-lawnstarter-handle-your-carpetgrass-problem\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Let LawnStarter Handle Your Carpetgrass Problem<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Killing carpetgrass without harming your lawn takes time, the right products, and the right timing. Miss any one of those, and you are treating the same lawn again next season.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you would rather make sure you&#8217;re getting this weed under control, <strong>LawnStarter<\/strong> connects you with local, vetted pros who know exactly when and how to eliminate carpetgrass for good with <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnstarter.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=fertilization\">lawn treatment services<\/a>.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Get an instant price from LawnStarter and get your weekends back.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Main Image: Carpetgrass invading lawn before removal treatment. Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/macleaygrassman\/6773980686\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Harry Rose<\/a> \/ Flickr \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>When carpetgrass takes over your lawn, try these 7 ways to get rid of carpetgrass for good. Options include eco-friendly and chemical methods.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":83,"featured_media":43780,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[28],"tags":[9],"class_list":["post-43769","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-lawn-care-2","tag-lawn-care"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/rsz_2carpetgrass.jpg?wsr","author_info":{"display_name":"Jordan Ardoin","author_link":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/author\/jordan-ardoin\/"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Get Rid of Carpetgrass<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"When carpetgrass takes over your lawn, try these 7 ways to get rid of carpetgrass for good. Options include eco-friendly and chemical methods.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to Get Rid of Carpetgrass\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"When carpetgrass takes over your lawn, try these 7 ways to get rid of carpetgrass for good. Options include eco-friendly and chemical methods.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Lawnstarter\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-06-02T15:40:54+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-08-08T00:08:08+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/rsz_2carpetgrass.jpg?wsr\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"900\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Jordan Ardoin\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Jordan Ardoin\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"11 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/lawn-care-2\\\/how-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/lawn-care-2\\\/how-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Jordan Ardoin\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/00d195ba8c4c3cd22b97216b69076eeb\"},\"headline\":\"How to Get Rid of Carpetgrass\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-06-02T15:40:54+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-08-08T00:08:08+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/lawn-care-2\\\/how-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":2170,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/lawn-care-2\\\/how-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2022\\\/02\\\/rsz_2carpetgrass.jpg?wsr\",\"keywords\":[\"lawn care\"],\"articleSection\":[\"General Lawn Care\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":[\"WebPage\",\"FAQPage\"],\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/lawn-care-2\\\/how-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/lawn-care-2\\\/how-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass\\\/\",\"name\":\"How to Get Rid of Carpetgrass\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/lawn-care-2\\\/how-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/lawn-care-2\\\/how-to-get-rid-of-carpetgrass\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2022\\\/02\\\/rsz_2carpetgrass.jpg?wsr\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-06-02T15:40:54+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-08-08T00:08:08+00:00\",\"description\":\"When carpetgrass takes over your lawn, try these 7 ways to get rid of carpetgrass for good. 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