How to Get Rid of Bermudagrass In Your Zoysia or St. Augustine Lawn

While often used as a lawn turf, Bermudagrass can be a relentless invader that can turn your beautiful Zoysia or St. Augustine lawn into a tangled mess. For a long time, the battle against Bermudagrass was challenging, as there were limited options available to remove it without harming your desired grass types. Fusilade II, a widely-known herbicide, produced limited results when applied at the rates deemed safe for Zoysia lawns. If your lawn was St. Augustine, there wasn’t a selective method for removing Bermudagrass without harming your existing lawn.

However, a game-changing solution has emerged in the form of Syngenta’s Recognition herbicide. This revolutionary herbicide has brought a sigh of relief to homeowners who have been struggling to control common or hybrid Bermudagrass while preserving their Zoysia and St. Augustine lawns. 

The secret to Recognition's success lies in its proprietary safener called metcamifen. This safener makes it possible to eliminate Bermudagrass from Zoysia, St. Augustine, and even Kikuyugrass by allowing you to use Fusilade II at higher rates without causing injury to your desired grass.

We are delighted to bring Recognition to you as part of our Recognition and Fusilade II Herbicide Kit. 

 

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Understanding the Recognition and Fusilade II Herbicide Kit

To effectively combat Bermudagrass without harming your desired Zoysia and St. Augustine grass, it's crucial to understand the unique properties and benefits of the Recognition and Fusilade II herbicide kit. 

The Role of Recognition Herbicide

Recognition herbicide stands out as the key player in this potent herbicide combo. Here's how it works:

Safely controls Bermuda grass in your Zoysia or St. Augustine lawn: Metcamifen, the magic ingredient in Recognition, is responsible for making Fusilade II herbicide safe for your desired grass types. It ensures that your Zoysia and St. Augustine lawns remain unscathed while targeting the invasive Bermudagrass.

Broad-spectrum weed control: Recognition doesn't stop at Bermudagrass; it's effective against over 40 different grassy, sedge, and broadleaf weeds. So you can address multiple weed issues in one fell swoop, making your lawn maintenance more efficient.

Sedge and Poa annua Control: Besides Bermudagrass, Recognition also excels at controlling all sedges, including nutsedge, kyllinga, annual sedges, and globe sedges. It's also effective against Poa annua, the notorious annual bluegrass that can disrupt the aesthetics of your lawn.

Flexible application temperatures: Unlike some temperature-sensitive herbicides, Recognition can be safely applied over a broad temperature range. This flexibility means you can tackle your weed problem at various times throughout the growing season. That said, we recommend using Recognition with Fusilade II in spring when your goal is controlling Bermudagrass.

Related: Best Nutsedge Weed Killers

 

Supported Grass Types

Recognition and Fusilade II is not a one-size-fits-all solution. They are tailored to work effectively on specific grass types, which is why they're so valuable for Zoysia and St. Augustine lawns.

Zoysiagrass: Zoysia lawns are known for their lush, carpet-like appearance but are highly susceptible to Bermudagrass invasion. Recognition and Fusilade II offer a targeted approach to safeguard your Zoysia grass.

St. Augustinegrass: St. Augustinegrass is a popular choice for its lush, green appearance and ability to thrive in warmer climates. This grass type can also fall victim to Bermudagrass, and the Recognition and Fusilade II kit provides the solution for safely removing it. This kit also provides an excellent option for controlling other weeds in St. Augustine.

Kikuyugrass: Recognized as a desirable grass in certain regions, Kikuyugrass can also be threatened by Bermudagrass. This herbicide kit is your defense against invasive grasses in Kikuyugrass lawns.

With Recognition as the safeguarding agent and Fusilade II as the weed control warrior, this herbicide kit is your best bet for maintaining the pristine condition of your Zoysia, St. Augustine, or Kikuyugrass lawn while effectively eradicating Bermudagrass and other troublesome weeds.

The Crucial Combination: Fusilade II and Recognition

One of the key principles of effectively using the Recognition and Fusilade II herbicide kit is the understanding that Fusilade II and Recognition must work together to tackle Bermudagrass while preserving St. Augustinegrass and Kikuyugrass. So, let's dive into why this combination is essential and why Fusilade II cannot be used alone in these scenarios.

The Role of Fusilade II

Fusilade II is a potent herbicide renowned for its ability to control various grassy weeds, including Bermudagrass. However, when it comes to St. Augustinegrass and Kikuyugrass, using Fusilade II alone poses a significant risk. Fusilade II can be highly effective but can also cause injury to these grass types when not used in combination with Recognition.

The Safeguarding Power of Recognition

Recognition herbicide, with its proprietary safener metcamifen, is the safeguard that allows you to control Bermudagrass within St. Augustine and Kikuyugrass lawns without causing harm to the desirable grass varieties. It acts as a protective shield, ensuring that Fusilade II targets the invasive Bermudagrass without negatively impacting the surrounding turf.

The Synergy of the Kit

The Recognition and Fusilade II herbicide kit leverages the complementary strengths of these herbicides. Together, they provide a powerful one-two punch against Bermudagrass, making it possible to eradicate the invasive grass while leaving your St. Augustine and Kikuyugrass unscathed. This synergy is the key to the kit's success and sets it apart from standalone herbicides. 

So, when dealing with Bermudagrass invasion in St. Augustine and Kikuyugrass lawns, it is absolutely crucial to use Recognition in conjunction with Fusilade II. Attempting to control Bermudagrass with Fusilade II alone will lead to unintended harm to your desired grass, which is why this kit, with its combination of Recognition and Fusilade II, is the ideal choice for preserving the integrity of your lawn.

Application Guidelines

Successfully using the Recognition and Fusilade II herbicide kit to combat Bermudagrass in your Zoysia and St. Augustine lawns requires careful attention to application guidelines. In this section, we'll walk you through the essential application information you need to ensure the safe and effective use of these herbicides.

Recommended Equipment

To apply the Recognition and Fusilade II herbicide kit, you'll need the right equipment for the job: 

Battery-powered 4-gallon sprayer: The herbicides should be applied using a battery-powered sprayer with a TeeJet foliar spray tip. This equipment ensures accurate and controlled application, which is critical for achieving the desired results. 

Avoid hose-end sprayers: It's important to note that this herbicide should not be applied using hose-end sprayers. The battery-powered sprayer or handheld pump sprayer are essential tools for achieving the precision required to protect your Zoysia and St. Augustine lawns.

Ideal Weather Conditions

The success of your herbicide application also depends on favorable weather conditions: 

Temperature: While there are no temperature restrictions for using Recognition and Fusilade II, it's not advisable to spray your lawn with these herbicides when temperatures exceed 95°F. Higher temperatures may result in temporary injury to the grass, so it's best to plan your application during milder weather conditions.  

Wind speed: Avoid application on windy days when wind speeds exceed 10 mph. Wind can carry the herbicide droplets away from the target area, leading to uneven coverage and potential harm to non-target plants. 

Time of Year: Herbicides work best when the weed being targeted is actively growing. For this reason, we recommend using Recognition and Fusilade II to target Bermuda grass in spring to early summer. You’ll get better Bermudagrass control and the time of year will help your existing lawn to quickly grow through any temporary stunting. 

Following these guidelines for equipment and weather conditions ensures that your herbicide application is accurate and safe for your Zoysia and St. Augustine lawns.

 

Related: What Types of Weeds Look Like Grass?

 

Coverage and Application Rates

To achieve effective Bermudagrass control in your Zoysia and St. Augustine lawns using the Recognition and Fusilade II herbicide kit, you need to understand the coverage area and application rates. These details will help you plan your herbicide application for optimal results.

Coverage Area

The coverage area for the Recognition and Fusilade II kit varies depending on the application rate. Generally, you can expect to treat an area between 53,000 and 80,000 square feet with a single kit. The exact coverage area within this range will depend on the rate at which you apply the herbicides.

Recognition and Fusilade II Application Rates for Bermudagrass Control

Fusilade II:

Application rate: 0.55 fluid ounces per 1000 square feet.

Recognition:

Application rate: 0.03 ounces per 1000 square feet (equivalent to 1 small level scoop).

Spreader Sticker:

Application rate: 0.30 fluid ounces per 1000 square feet.

Turf Mark Dye:

Application rate: 0.75 fluid ounces per 1000 square feet.

To prepare your herbicide mixture, combine these herbicides and additives with one gallon of water per 1000 square feet. This mixture ensures that the herbicides are correctly diluted and evenly distributed, which is essential for successful weed control. 

Keep in mind that the specific application rates and coverage areas may vary based on the maturity of the Bermudagrass in your lawn. In some cases, a follow-up application may be required 4 to 6 weeks after the initial treatment to ensure thorough and lasting control. 

Understanding these coverage and application rate details will help you plan and execute your Bermudagrass control strategy effectively.

Application Tips for Optimal Results

To ensure the best possible results when using the Recognition and Fusilade II herbicide kit to combat Bermudagrass in your Zoysia and St. Augustine lawns, it's essential to follow these application tips for precision and effectiveness. 

 

Use a Non-Ionic Surfactant

When applying Recognition for the best results, we highly recommend using a non-ionic surfactant in your herbicide mixture. A non-ionic surfactant helps the herbicide adhere to the weed's surface, improving its efficacy. This ensures that Recognition and Fusilade II can penetrate and control the Bermudagrass more effectively, leaving your Zoysia and St. Augustine lawns unharmed. 

That’s why we include Hi-Yield spreader sticker non-ionic surfactant in this kit, along with Turf Mark Blue indicator dye so you can see where you have applied the herbicide to achieve an even application in the areas of your lawn you need to treat. 

The Recognition and Fusilade II kit offers a cost-saving advantage compared to purchasing these products separately. This not only saves you money but also streamlines your weed control efforts.

Compatibility with Granular Fertilizer and Essential-G

You can confidently apply granular fertilizer and Essential-G on the same day as Recognition and Fusilade II. However, it's recommended that these products be applied before using the herbicides.

Compatibility with Other Liquid Products

Recognition and Fusilade II can be applied alongside other liquids, but it's advisable to apply non-herbicide products like biostimulants, liquid fertilizers, and Primo Maxx growth regulator before spraying Recognition and Fusilade II. This sequential approach ensures that the herbicides can effectively target the intended weeds without interference.

Timing Is Key

For optimal results, refrain from mowing your lawn for seven days before and seven days after herbicide application. This allows the herbicides to work undisturbed and penetrate the Bermudagrass effectively. Mowing during this period can disrupt the process and reduce the herbicide's efficacy.

No Need to Water After Application 

One of the benefits of Recognition and Fusilade II is that they work through foliar uptake, meaning they don't need to be watered in after application. Simply spray the targeted weeds and allow the herbicides to dry on the foliage.

Timeframe for Weed Control

The time it takes for weeds to die after spraying with Recognition and Fusilade II can vary depending on the type of weed and the prevailing temperature conditions. In general, most weeds begin to show yellowing within approximately 14 days of application and are typically dead by around day 28.

Reapplication Timing

For the most effective weed control, we recommend waiting 4 to 6 weeks between applications of Recognition and Fusilade II. It's important not to exceed three applications per calendar year to maintain the health and appearance of your grass.

Clippings Management

After the herbicide application, it's crucial not to transfer grass clippings from your lawn to non-target areas. Clippings can contain herbicide residues and may inadvertently harm other plants or grass. Properly dispose of the clippings to ensure the safety of your surrounding vegetation.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment when handling herbicides. This includes gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection. Adhering to safety guidelines is essential for your well-being during the application process. 

By following these application tips, you'll maximize the effectiveness of the Recognition and Fusilade II herbicide kit, ensuring that you can safely and efficiently control Bermudagrass while preserving the beauty of your Zoysia and St. Augustine lawns. 

Application Sites

The Recognition and Fusilade II herbicide kit is a versatile and potent solution that can be effectively applied to a range of application sites. Whether you're a homeowner looking to restore the health of your lawn or a professional working on a larger-scale project, this herbicide kit is well-suited for various purposes and locations. Here are some of the key application sites where this kit can be used effectively:

Residential Lawns

Homeowners dealing with Bermudagrass infestation in their Zoysia or St. Augustine lawns can trust the Recognition and Fusilade II kit to restore their green spaces to their former glory. It offers a safe and efficient way to control Bermudagrass while protecting the integrity of the desirable grass varieties.

Commercial Properties

Commercial properties, such as office complexes, shopping centers, and apartment complexes, can also benefit from the Recognition and Fusilade II herbicide kit. Maintaining a well-kept, uniform lawn is essential for creating a positive first impression, and this kit ensures that Bermudagrass doesn't disrupt the aesthetics of these properties.

Parks and Recreational Areas

Public parks, recreational fields, and playgrounds often feature St. Augustine or Zoysia lawns. Ensuring these spaces remain free from Bermudagrass invasion is essential for both safety and aesthetics. The Recognition and Fusilade II kit is a reliable choice for maintaining these community areas.

Golf Courses

Golf courses demand pristine and uniform turf conditions. Bermudagrass can be a significant nuisance, affecting the playability and aesthetics of the course. The Recognition and Fusilade II kit provides a professional solution for keeping fairways and tee boxes in top condition.

Sod Farms

Sod farms require weed control to ensure the quality of their turfgrass products. This herbicide kit can be a valuable tool for preventing Bermudagrass contamination in the production of Zoysia or St. Augustine sod.

Highways and Right-of-Ways

Maintaining roadside areas and highway medians often involves controlling unwanted vegetation. The Recognition and Fusilade II kit can be used in these non-crop areas to keep roadsides tidy and visually appealing. 

The Recognition and Fusilade II herbicide kit's versatility extends to a wide range of application sites, making it an invaluable tool for professionals and homeowners alike. Regardless of the specific location, this kit helps maintain the health and beauty of Zoysia and St. Augustine lawns while effectively combating Bermudagrass and other invasive weeds.

 

Related: The Best Four Products for Killing Weeds Without Killing Grass

 

Bermuda Be Gone!

Don't let Bermudagrass disrupt the serenity and beauty of your green spaces. With the Recognition and Fusilade II herbicide kit, you have a potent ally in your lawn maintenance journey. So, embrace this solution, protect your Zoysia and St. Augustine grass, and enjoy the lush, weed-free results that you've been longing for. Your lawn deserves nothing less! 

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