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Vaseygrass Control in Bermudagrass Pastures and Hayfields

Chris Tyson, Tattnall Extension

Vaseygrass is one of those troublesome weeds in bermudagrass pastures and hayfields that I get a lot of questions about. It can often be seen growing along the side of the road, in ditches, and other disturbed areas where there is good moisture.  Vaseygrass is a tall grass with a bunch type growth habit.  It can often be seen growing 2-4 tall above other grasses.  It reproduces and spreads from seed, but it is a perennial grass, so once it is established, it will keep coming back.  In bermudagrass pastures and hayfields, we have a few options for controlling this weed.

  1. Pastora Herbicide– Apply Pastora herbicide at 1.0 to 1.5 ounces per acre between cuttings. Treat about 10 to 14 days after mowing when Vaseygrass has 6″ to 8″ of leaf surface for herbicide to contact. A repeat application may be necessary to achieve an adequate level of control. Apply Pastora with nonionic surfactant at the rate of 1 quart per 100 gallons of spray solution.  Expect Pastora to temporarily stunt and yellow bermudagrass for a few weeks after treating. This damage can be lessened if treated between cuttings before there is much new grass growth.
  2. Impose Herbicide– This herbicide can also help to control vaseygrass. For best control, use Impose at 6-8 ounces per acre with 1 quart of nonionic surfactant per 100 gallons of spray solution.  The use of 2-3 pints of 28% N, 32% N, 10-34-0, or ammonium sulfate in combination with the recommended rate of surfactant may increase control. Impose can be applied between cuttings, once the height of the vaseygrass reaches 4-8 inches.  Impose will also temporarily injure bermudagrass.  It will suppress growth for approximately 20-40 days, and cause yellowing of the foliage.  It should not be applied unless a bermudagrass yield reduction for the first cutting after application is acceptable.
Vaseygrass Seedhead
Vaseygrass Seedhead

These 2 herbicide can be an effective tool in the fight against vaseygrass.  Remember, these herbicides are for use in bermudagrass only.  They can severely injure other grasses, such as bahia.  As always, read and follow the herbicide label for other precautions before using these herbicides, or any other pesticide. Feel free to give us a call if you have questions.

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