Description

Yellow foxtail is a summer annual which germinates when soil temperatures reach 65 degrees F. The leaves are rolled in the bud. The ligule is a fringe of hairs, and the auricles are absent. The collar is narrow and continuous. The blades of yellow foxtail contain hairs near the ligule. The growth habit of yellow foxtail is erect. The seedhead is a bushy, erect spike which resembles the tail of a fox. Foxtail is found throughout the United States, but is heaviest in the Midwest and East. 

Distribution

Germination Dates

3: May-June 4: May-June 5: April-May 6: April-May

7: March-April 8: March-April 9: February-March 10: February-March

Cultural Practices

Do not seed, core aerate or verticut when soil and weather conditions are appropriate for germination. When foxtail begins producing seedheads, lower your mowing height. Foxtail is generally not a problem in well-established vigorous turf sites.

Herbicide Use

Use a pre-emergence herbicide containing siduron when establishing turfgrass from seed. Post-emergence herbicide applications may damage desirable seedling grasses. Follow university extension center recommendations for your area.

Look Alikes