Paspalum is often seen as a big problem for lawns in Australia, making it tough to control weeds. This perennial tufted weed, thriving predominantly in the South Eastern states, can become the nemesis of a well-manicured lawn. In its natural habitat or garden beds, Paspalum can reach staggering heights of over a meter. However, when infiltrating home lawns subject to regular mowing, it cunningly adapts its growth patterns, often skirting beneath mower blades, making it a resilient adversary.
Known by various monikers such as caterpillar grass, millet grass, and Dallis grass, Paspalum transforms its growing habits in response to the meticulous care of a regularly mowed lawn. This summer-active weed unveils its tassel-shaped seed-bearing heads from October to April, with germination occurring in warm, moist months. Paspalum, notorious for its rapid self-seeding, produces sticky seeds that latch onto animals and footwear, facilitating easy transportation to new areas. Once entrenched, eradicating Paspalum clumps becomes a formidable task, often extending over two to three years for the first flowering to occur.
Paspalum exhibits diverse varieties, including the infamous Bahia Grass and Water Couch. While the common Paspalum can attain a height of 1 meter, Bahia grass tends to be a more diminutive variety, and water couch typically thrives in proximity to water bodies. Despite their differences, all variants share a common trait — an inclination to self-seed prolifically. Regular mowing acts as a crucial control measure, impeding the spread of Paspalum by eliminating its seeds. However, the weed's cunning survival strategy involves ceasing upward growth and adopting a creeping demeanor along the ground.
Understanding the intricate nature of Paspalum is the first step in reclaiming your lawn's health. Don't let Paspalum dictate the destiny of your lawn, book a free lawn assessment and quote with us today for professional guidance and effective weed management.