Targeted Bentgrass Control: Don't Kill the Whole Lawn

Dealing with bentgrass patches in a client's lawn? Aeration and overseeding often spread it further. The solution: spot-treat only the bentgrass, not the entire lawn.

Bentgrass (Agrostis spp.) spreads via stolons and forms dense mats that crowd out desirable turf. Non-selective herbicides (glyphosate) applied precisely to bentgrass patches—using a paintbrush or shielded sprayer—preserve surrounding grass. Multiple applications 2-3 weeks apart may be needed.

After bentgrass dies, remove dead material, loosen soil, and overseed with the original grass type. Maintain proper mowing height (higher for most cool-season grasses) and avoid overwatering—bentgrass thrives in wet, compacted conditions.

For detailed step-by-step guidance, see my published column on bentgrass management at TheLawnCoach.com. The key principle: surgical removal beats nuclear option. Preserving existing healthy turf saves time, money, and establishes faster.