Invasive Bentgrass Takeover: Can Corn Gluten Help or Is Full Renovation Needed?

Bentgrass Domination in an Organic Transition

A homeowner's lawn is overtaken by bentgrass, choking out other turf grasses. They tried Gardens Alive corn gluten pre-emergent once (spring) as part of organic transition. Considering full kill-and-restart but daunted by work.

Expert Assessment (Charlotte)

• Corn gluten stops seed germination but doesn't affect established bentgrass spreading vegetatively
• Unclear if bentgrass spreads by runners (like St. Augustine) or only seeds
• Recommends Howard Garrett's "Dirt Doctor" website (dirtdoctor.com) for deep organic expertise
• $25/year subscription gives forum access, videos, newsletter, magazine
• Garrett is a scientist/agriculturist with labs testing products/remedies
• Regional differences exist, but organic principles transfer

Bentgrass Challenge

Bentgrass (Agrostis spp.) is a perennial that forms dense mats. If it spreads by stolons/rhizomes, pre-emergents won't touch established plants. Manual removal or selective herbicides (non-organic) may be needed for renovation.

Charlotte's referral to a specialized organic resource reflects the complexity of established perennial grassy weed control without chemicals.