Guildford Grass

Guildford grass is identified by it's long stems that are dark green in colour, skinny, circular and very tough. Not a grass at all, but part of the Iris family, Guildford Grass will also form a beautiful pink flower. It's root system contains deep rooted corms that make pulling the weed sometimes difficult. Often when pulled, the corm may stay in the ground and will re-germinate another time.

Cultural Management Of Guildford Grass

Lawn mowing has no effect in controlling Guildford Grass, and when mowed, it usually leaves an ugly slashed appearance, making it difficult to maintain a nice finish on our lawns.

The best way to control Guildford Grass is directly after it becomes apparent that an infestation has occurred, and to remove the weed by hand, making sure that the underground corm is also removed. The use of an instrument to aid in digging Guildford Grass out of the ground with the corm intact is a good idea, a kitchen knife or fork, or hand spade may fill this purpose perfectly.

Herbicide Control For Guildford Grass

Herbicides to control Guildford Grass are not available to the general public. However, a licensed weed sprayer can obtain these products and spray the herbicide for you.

Other Controls

The only other way of controlling Guildford Grass is the use of a bobcat or dingo digger to completely remove the top several centimetres of soil form the affected area.

After removal, new soil can be laid down, followed by a new lawn or garden bed. A very drastic measure, of course, but it can often be suitable as an option in a minority of cases where extreme infestation has occurred.