Weed Control and Fertilizing New Ryegrass in Southern California

I planted ryegrass about a month ago, and it's looking beautiful except for weed patches—crabgrass and what my neighbor calls "pigweed" (possibly a broadleaf variety). I want to buy weed killer and fertilizer but don't know which products to choose or how to apply them. I used steer manure when tilling before seeding and was told to fertilize after a month. I'm in Southern California. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Expert Advice

Since your ryegrass is only one month old, avoid herbicides entirely—young grass can't tolerate them yet. Contact your local UC Cooperative Extension office for turf recommendations specific to your area. For fertilizer, Scotts Turf Builder products are reliable and far more effective than steer manure for established turf. Follow the extension office's guidance for timing and application rates. You can find your local office at https://danr.ucop.edu/regional.htm.