People are tuning up lawn mowers, planting flowers and preparing yards for spring. Crabgrass is an annual, warm-season grass that grows rapidly during warm summer weather. According to horticulturists with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, the best way to prevent crabgrass infestations is to maintain a healthy, thick lawn. They recommend using a pre-emergence herbicide before the crabgrass seeds germinate in early to mid-April in southern Iowa.

Also, the horticulturists add there is an option for gardeners who prefer a non-chemical way to prevent crabgrass. Corn gluten meal inhibits the growth of crabgrass seedlings and makes the plants unable to develop roots.

Steve Donnolly, building and zoning official for the City of Washington, explains the city of Washington’s lawn code states grass cannot be taller than eight inches. If a yard exceeds the height, city employees will mow the lawn after notification and the cost of the services will be charged to the property owner.