Alopecurus, also known as foxtail grass, can be found just about everywhere throughout the continental US. Being able to identify and get rid of foxtail grass is important as it can pose a dangerous threat to both lawns and dogs.
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What Is Foxtail Grass?
Foxtail grass is actually a grassy weed that can grow perennially as well as annually. The giveaway for foxtail grass is the fluffy, tail-like tops that grow at the top of the blade stem.
Foxtail grass comes in three main varieties: yellow, green, and giant. While foxtail grass can look harmless, it can actually wreak havoc on your lawn if not properly managed.
Why Foxtail Grass is Dangerous to Dogs
The reason why foxtail grass can pose a threat to dogs is due to the barbed seed awns it produces. These awns are designed to latch onto the ground to help the plant reproduce. Unfortunately, these seeds can also latch onto a dog’s fur coat as well as burrow into the skin.
Once the seed barbs are attached, they continue to dig deeper as the animal moves, causing a threat as they don’t break down over time.
Dogs are especially vulnerable to these foxtail grass seeds as they can step on them or get them in their nose, ears, or mouths. If not discovered and treated promptly, embedded foxtail seed awns can lead to infections and even death in severe cases if left untreated.
Here’s a list of symptoms to watch out for to know if your dog has been exposed to foxtail grass awn:
- Sneezing Persistently – This can be a sign that a foxtail grass awn is lodged in the dog’s nose.
- Excessive Head Shaking – This is often a sign that a foxtail seed awn is lodged in the dog’s ears.
- Swelling or Lumps – This may indicate that an awn may be lodged in the dogs skin and is infected.
- Watery Eyes – This could be a sign that a foxtail seed is lodged in the dog’s eye.
If any of these symptoms present themselves, it’s important to seek out the expertise of a veterinarian immediately.
Controlling Foxtail Grass In Your Lawn
Like any weed, if left unchecked, it can be harder to manage once it’s established in the lawn. This is why taking a proactive approach yields much better results.
The most effective way to prevent foxtail grass from growing in your lawn is by using a pre-emergent like Torocity. Using herbicides in the early spring can help prevent foxtail grass seeds from germinating in the first place, stopping the weed before it can even start.
For lawns that already have foxtail grass established in the turf, a post emergent herbicide like Mesotrione may need to be used. Hand pulling the foxtail grass weed may also be effective in removing the weed from your lawn.
If the lawn has been completely taken over, you may have to kill the grass completely and reseed and start over in extreme cases.
Long-Term Lawn Care Strategies
Along with using pre and post emergent herbicides each season, there are a few other things you can do to try and keep foxtail grass at bay in your yard.
Using an organic fertilizer like Milorganite can ensure that your grass has the nutrients it needs in order to stay healthy, full and lush.
Another way to make sure that your grass is able to crowd our weeds is by overseeding each fall or doing a fall nitrogen blitz. Overseeding helps to keep your lawn as dense as possible, preventing weeds from taking a foothold in the first place.
Foxtail Grass Can Be Controlled
Foxtail grass is more than just an unsightly weed; it’s a potentially deadly hazard for dogs and a persistent threat to lawns.
By understanding the risks and taking proactive measures, you can protect your pets and maintain a healthy, vibrant lawn. Whether you’re dealing with an existing infestation or looking to prevent one, staying vigilant and following sound lawn care practices are your best defenses against foxtail grass.