Crowsfoot grass

Eleusine indica, commonly known as goosegrass or wiregrass, is a widespread and common annual grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is found in various habitats, including lawns, fields, gardens, and disturbed areas. Here's a detailed description:

Botanical Description:

1. Habit:

   • Goosegrass is an annual grass with a prostrate or spreading growth habit. It often forms dense mats, especially in areas with compacted soil.

2. Leaves:

   • The leaves are linear, typically about 5-20 cm long, and have a distinctive pale-green color.
   • Leaf blades are flat and can be either hairless or slightly hairy.

3. Inflorescence:

   • The inflorescence is a digitate or finger-like arrangement, consisting of several spike-like branches radiating from a central point.

4. Spikelets:

   • The spikelets are small and compressed, containing several florets.

5. Flowering:

   • Goosegrass flowers throughout the warm season, producing seeds that contribute to its prolific spread.

6. Roots:

   • The plant has a fibrous root system.

Identification Tips:

• Growth Form:

  • Goosegrass is characterized by its low-growing, spreading habit, forming a rosette of leaves close to the ground.

• Leaf Arrangement:

  • The linear leaves radiate from the base, and the plant often appears as a circular mat.

• Seedheads:

  • The distinctive digitate seedheads with spike-like branches are a key identification feature.

Ecological Role:

• Adaptability:

  • Goosegrass is highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of soil types, including compacted and disturbed soils.

• Weed Competitor:

  • It competes well with other plants and can become invasive, especially in lawns and areas with poor soil conditions.

Management and Control:

1. Cultural Practices:

   • Regular mowing can help control the height of goosegrass and prevent it from forming dense mats.

2. Hand Removal:

   • Hand-pulling or hoeing can be effective for small infestations, but it's essential to remove the entire plant to prevent regrowth.

3. Herbicides:

   • Selective herbicides designed for grass control in broadleaf plants can be used. Always follow recommended application rates and guidelines.

4. Improving Lawn Health:

   • Promoting a healthy and well-fertilized lawn can help suppress the growth of goosegrass.

5. Mulching:

   • Mulching garden beds can help suppress the growth of goosegrass and reduce its establishment.

6. Prevention:

   • Preventing soil compaction and promoting proper lawn care practices can help minimize goosegrass infestations.