If you’ve noticed patches of bentgrass creeping into your lawn, you’re not alone. Bentgrass spreads aggressively, creating irregular patches that look out of place in a healthy lawn. The good news? Fall is the perfect season to take control—without turning your whole yard upside down.

Why Fall Is the Ideal Time

Cooler temperatures, shorter days, and natural moisture make fall the best time to tackle bentgrass. Your desirable turf (like Kentucky bluegrass, fescues, or perennial rye) is actively growing, while weeds and invaders like bentgrass can be selectively targeted.

This means you can eliminate bentgrass now, then repair and overseed in the same season—so you head into next spring with a lawn that looks even better.

Step 1: Identify & Mark the Bentgrass

Bentgrass has a distinct appearance:

• Fine texture with a lighter green color.

• Grows in patches or circles that look different from the rest of the turf.

• Lays down flat, almost like a thatch mat, instead of upright.

Mark these areas with flags or spray paint to avoid confusion when treating.

Step 2: Apply a Targeted Non-Selective Herbicide

The most effective control method is a non-selective herbicide applied directly to bentgrass patches. This ensures complete kill of the unwanted grass while leaving surrounding turf untouched.

• Apply on a calm, dry day.

• Spray carefully only on the bentgrass patches.

• Wait 7–10 days for full results before moving to the next step.

Step 3: Remove Dead Turf & Prep the Soil

After the bentgrass dies off:

• Lightly rake out the dead material.

• Loosen the soil surface with a rake or dethatcher.

• Add a thin layer of quality topsoil if needed for smooth leveling.

This prepares the seedbed for new grass to establish quickly.

Step 4: Reseed With the Right Grass

Choose a seed blend that matches your lawn (fescue, bluegrass, sun vs. shade, soil type, traffic). Overseed the treated patches generously, then cover lightly with straw or seed mulch.

• Water daily until germination.

• Reduce watering frequency as seedlings mature.

Step 5: Keep It Growing Strong

Your new turf will need help getting established:

• Fertilize with a starter fertilizer high in phosphorus.

• Keep mowing height at 3–4 inches to encourage deeper roots.

• Avoid heavy foot traffic until the lawn has thickened up.

By spring, the bentgrass patches will be gone, and your lawn will be lush, uniform, and ready for the season ahead.

Why This Works

This patch-by-patch approach minimizes disruption to your yard. Instead of tearing out large areas or doing a full renovation, you’re surgically removing bentgrass while strengthening the surrounding turf. It’s efficient, cost-effective, and sets you up for success.

✅ Pro Tip: If you struggle with recurring bentgrass, consider aerating and overseeding the entire lawn in fall. A dense, healthy turf is your best defense against future invasions.