This annoying weed is spreading quickly in the bushes this year: don't forget to remove it

This year, a particular weed has been spreading rapidly across lawns in Slovenia, causing confusion among homeowners who are trying to identify and manage it. The plant, often referred to in online discussions under various names such as “summer grass” or “crabgrass,” is actually a type known scientifically as Digitaria, specifically, the red-rooted and small crabgrass. These weeds have become increasingly visible on social media platforms, with many users sharing photos of their lawns and asking for advice on how to deal with this invasive growth. The confusion stems from the multiple common names used for these weeds. In online forums and discussions, the term “summer grass” is frequently used, while scientific literature typically refers to them as crabgrass. On Slovenian lawns, two main types of crabgrass are commonly found: the red-rooted and the smaller variety. When someone refers to “summer grass” online, they are likely describing one of these crabgrass species, which explains why different names appear alongside the same images of the same plant. Crabgrass is an annual weed that thrives particularly well during the hottest parts of summer. While lawn grasses tend to slow down due to drought and high temperatures, crabgrass quickly takes advantage of open spaces and begins to grow vigorously. Its stems spread outward from the central stem, giving the plant a star-like or shell-shaped appearance, which is where its English name originates. The leaves are usually slightly lighter in color than lawn grass, somewhat wider, and more coarse in texture. As an annual, crabgrass does not spread through rhizomes but solely through seeds. By autumn, the plants die off, leaving behind seeds that remain in the soil and germinate again in spring. To control crabgrass effectively, it is best to remove it before it develops seeds. This can be achieved through regular mowing, proper watering, and timely overseeding to fill in bare spots. If left unchecked, crabgrass can quickly take over a lawn, especially in areas where the grass is sparse or stressed. In contrast, another weed often mistaken for crabgrass is the creeping bellflower, a perennial that spreads through long underground rhizomes. This makes it much harder to eradicate, as even small remnants of rhizomes can regenerate new plants. Unlike crabgrass, creeping bellflower does not rely on seed propagation and can persist in the soil for years. It appears similar to normal grass but has broader, coarser leaves. One of its defining characteristics becomes evident when pulling it up, long white rhizomes connect individual plants, meaning that removing just part of the root system can lead to regrowth. Many homeowners have noticed creeping bellflower spreading across their lawns this year. Managing this weed requires careful removal, ensuring that as many rhizomes as possible are extracted from the soil, followed by quick reseeding of the affected area to prevent further spread. Identifying whether you're dealing with crabgrass or creeping bellflower is crucial for effective management. Crabgrass tends to grow close to the ground, spreads in a star-like pattern, and often appears in mid-July or August. Creeping bellflower, on the other hand, forms larger patches and produces long white rhizomes upon pulling. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right approach for eradication. A local garden expert, Tina Podgrajšek, emphasizes the importance of early intervention in managing weeds. She advocates primarily for mechanical removal methods, stressing that prompt action is essential in preventing the spread of both crabgrass and creeping bellflower. Her insights highlight the need for proactive maintenance rather than reactive measures, ensuring that lawns remain healthy and free from unwanted vegetation.