So you have St. Augustine grass runners on your lawn, also known as stolons? Well, I’ll be going over ways to get rid of them. Those grass runners can be a real nuisance, and they can be challenging to get rid of if not maintained properly.
In this blog post, I’ll discuss the causes of St. Augustine grass runners and how to get rid of them as well as some suggestions on transplanting them.
What Causes St Augustine Grass Runners?
St Augustine grass is a popular choice for lawns in warm climates, as it is tolerant of heat and humidity. However, this grass can sometimes become invasive due to the development of grass runners.
When soil is compacted, it can create favorable conditions for the growth of these small grasses. Grass runners grow more quickly than regular grass and may become rigid due to their proximity.
This can cause them to rise up out of the soil rather than receive nutrients through their roots.
As a result, St Augustine grass runners can be a nuisance for gardeners trying to maintain a neat and tidy lawn.
Also known as “stolons,” runners are above-ground stems that can grow several feet in length. They are often seen in lawns that are not well-maintained, as the runners are a way for the grass to spread and fill in gaps.
In most cases, runners are not a cause for concern and can actually be beneficial, as they help the grass to become thicker and prevent weeds from taking root.
However, if runners become excessive, they can damage lawn mowers and make it difficult to mow the grass.
Additionally, runners can also contribute to thatch buildup, leading to drainage problems. It is essential to keep an eye on the runners and take steps to control them if necessary.
How Fast Do St Augustine Runners Grow?
This grass type is known for its rapid growth, making it an ideal choice for those who want to fill in bare spots on their lawns quickly. St. Augustine runners will typically spread after 7-14 days, although it may take up to 2 weeks for the roots to firmly establish themselves in the ground.
The time frame for growth can vary depending on weather patterns and exposure to sunlight. However, with proper care, St. Augustine grass will quickly fill in any bare spots on your lawn.
What Is The Growth Habit of St. Augustine Runners?
In general, St. Augustine Grass runners are more prolific in moist, shady conditions, where the grass is able to grow vigorously and produce an abundance of runners. In drier, sunnier conditions, the growth of runners is typically slower, and the grass is more likely to produce a denser, more compact growth habit.
Overall, the growth habit of St. Augustine Grass runners can be an asset or a liability, depending on the conditions and the goals of the homeowner. With proper management and maintenance, homeowners can control the runners and keep their lawns looking healthy and attractive.
How Do You Kill and Remove St. Augustine Runners?
Manually removing runners can be time-consuming, but it is an effective way to control their spread. Use a sharp knife or garden shears to cut the runners at the base. Be sure to dispose of them in a trash bag or container so they don’t continue to spread.
Mowing your lawn regularly with a high setting 2″, will help to prevent runners from taking over. The mower blades will cut the runners, preventing them from spreading.
Weed control herbicides can also be effective in controlling the spread of runners. I use the following product since I can control where the product gets applied to easily.
If you want to get rid of St. Augustine runners, the best time is in early spring or late fall. Use a garden tiller to loosen the soil around the runners, then cut the runners with a sharp spade and remove them from the area.
You can also smother the runners by laying down a heavy tarp for several weeks. Once the St. Augustine grass has died, you can remove the tarp and replant your lawn with the grass of your choice.
It is easy to remove runners that you don’t want by digging them up and disposing of them. You can easily maintain a healthy, dense St Augustine lawn with a bit of care.
Can I Transplant St Augustine Runners?
Yes, you can transplant St. Augustine grass reasonably easily.
St Augustine runners can be transplanted in the spring or summer, and they will take root quickly. To transplant them, simply dig up the runner, including the roots, and replant it in the desired location.
Many gardeners appreciate the thick, lush look of a St. Augustine lawn. This grass is known for its dense growth habit, partly due to its ability to produce long runners (also called stolons).
The runners help the plant to spread quickly, and they can also be used to create new plants.
Best Ways To Control St. Augustine Grass Runners From Getting Out Of Hand
Controlling St. Augustine Grass runners can be accomplished through a combination of cultural, physical, and chemical controls. Here are some of the best ways to keep St. Augustine Grass runners from getting out of hand:
- Cultural Controls: Encourage strong root growth by mowing at the recommended height and frequency, fertilizing regularly, and watering appropriately. A dense, healthy root system will help keep the runners in check.
- Physical Controls: Use edging to define the boundaries of the lawn and prevent runners from spreading into garden beds or walkways. Pruning or cutting the runners can also help to limit their growth and keep them within a designated area.
- Chemical Controls: Herbicides can be used to control the growth of runners. Products containing the active ingredient glyphosate are effective for killing runners, but it’s important to follow the label instructions carefully to avoid damaging the surrounding plants or soil.
- Preventive Measures: Choosing the right type of St. Augustine Grass for your lawn and planting it correctly can help prevent excessive runner production. Proper maintenance practices, such as regular mowing and fertilization, can also help keep runners under control.
- Regular Monitoring: Keep an eye on the lawn and be proactive about controlling runners as soon as they start to get out of hand. A little bit of maintenance now can save a lot of work in the long run.
FAQs
What is the mowing height and frequency of St. Augustine grass to prevent runners?
The recommended mowing height for St. Augustine Grass is 2.5 to 4 inches, with a frequency of once per week to once every two weeks. Mowing at the recommended height helps to promote a strong root system, which can help to limit the growth of runners.
Should You Cut St Augustine Runners?
Yes! Cutting the runners will help your lawn fill in and become thicker. The runners will quickly spread out when left uncut, creating thin, bare patches on your lawn. By cutting them back, you encourage the grass to put more energy into growing vertically, resulting in a fuller, healthier lawn.
Should I Pull St. Augustine Runners?
It is important to regularly remove any unwanted runners from the lawn for a few reasons.
Because these runners can also become a problem if they are not adequately controlled. If left unchecked, they can quickly take over an entire lawn, crowding out other grasses and causing bare patches.
In addition, the runners can make it difficult to mow the lawn and can even damage equipment.
Do you have any tricks to get rid of the pesky St. Augustine grass runners in your garden? We’d love to hear them! Share your tips in the comments below. In the meantime, we hope you found this article helpful and that it gave you a few ideas on how to tackle this problem head-on.
