Weeds: Nimblewill - Plant Insect, Disease and Environmental Problem Information from PlantsGalore.Com

Nimblewill (Muhlenbergia schreberi) is a warm-season perennial grass that sometimes infests cool-season lawns growing Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass and fine fescue. The leaves are thin and the stems are wiry. Its color ranges from pale green to grey. When found in other grasses, it forms a roundish patch and spreads by stolons (above ground stems).

Since it is adapted to warm regions, in colder zones, it will green up early in the spring and then turn brown in early fall.

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.