In older, long established lawns, you might see patches (more or less circular) of a very fine texture grass that does not fit in with the normal Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass or fine fescue. Odds are good that you have a patch of bentgrass (Agrostis).

Bentgrass is what you commonly see on the greens of golf courses or on lawn bowling areas. It is a perennial grass that needs to be mowed extremely short, usually at a height of 1/4 inch or less. That is great for those specialized uses but does not fit into the normal lawn routine.
 

There is no simple solution to this problem. Currently, there are no herbicides that will kill this type of weedy grass and not also kill the desirable species like Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass or fine fescue. So, you will need to treat the weed grass and a small area surrounding it with an herbicide such as glyphosate which will kill it all. Then, work up the soil and replant with a desirable seed mixture.

Note: For some perennial weedy grasses, there may be herbicides which will selectively kill them and not kill other species of grass. Check with your local Extension Service office for the availability of such products in your area.
 

Note: We have provided some general information and observations on this topic aimed at the home gardener. Before you take any serious action in your landscape, check with your state's land grant university's Cooperative Extension Service for the most current, appropriate, localized recommendations.

 
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