Palmetto Grass Identification and Weed Management

A Florida homeowner has 8-month Palmetto lawn (2,000 sq ft) with brown spots and crabgrass-like weeds.

Variety Confusion

"Palmetto" exists as both:

• St. Augustine 'Palmetto' — shade-tolerant, standard turf management
• Buffalo grass 'Palmetto' — sterile hybrid, drought-adapted, low-input

Management by Type

If St. Augustine: Herbicides + cultural practices work well. Plugs or seed (cheaper for 2,000 sq ft) for repairs. Pre-emergent in dormancy.

If Buffalo grass: Low nitrogen, minimal water. Seed with adapted variety. Weed management different.

Critical Step

Identify which Palmetto via county extension. Then get local variety recommendations. Transition to better-adapted St. Augustine is straightforward if needed.