Identifying and Controlling Sticker Weeds (Sandburs) in Your Lawn

You have low-growing weeds producing nasty stickers—likely sandburs (Cenchrus species)—spreading rapidly. Control depends entirely on accurate identification of both your lawn grass and the weed.

Why Identification Matters

• Lawn grass type: Herbicide tolerance varies. What's safe for Bermuda may kill St. Augustine or centipede.
• Weed species: Sandburs, spurweed, and other sticker weeds require different approaches.

Best Resource: County Extension Service

Your local Extension Office can identify both grass and weed (bring samples or photos) and provide legal, effective control recommendations for your state. Many offer free or low-cost diagnostics.

General Sandbur Management

1. Pre-emergent herbicide: Apply in early spring before soil temps reach 55°F. Products with pendimethalin, prodiamine, or dithiopyr work well.
2. Post-emergent: MSMA (where legal) or certain sulfonylurea herbicides control young plants. Read labels carefully for grass tolerance.
3. Cultural practices: Mow high, fertilize appropriately, and water deeply to favor your grass over the weed.
4. Mechanical removal: Hand-pull before seeds mature. Bag clippings if seed heads present.

Don't Guess

Misapplied herbicide can damage your lawn permanently. Get a positive ID first.