“Japanese stiltgrass (Microstegium vimineum) is an invasive grass that threatens native plants and natural habitats in the eastern United States. Native to Japan, China, central Asia and India. M. vimineum was originally documented in Tennessee in 1919 and is believed to have been accidentally introduced to the United States through its use as a packing material.”
Stiltgrass thrives in moderate-to-densely shaded areas subject to regular soil disturbances, such as flooding, mowing, tilling, and high foot traffic. Stiltgrass is commonly found along roadways and ditches, floodplains, moist woodlands, and power line corridors. Stiltgrass often thrives in soils that are moist, acidic to neutral, and fertile. Stiltgrass also threatens wooded areas where tree canopies are defoliated due to infestations of gypsy moths or other destructive events. In residential areas, stiltgrass can invade lawns, landscape beds, and vegetable gardens. Stiltgrass does not proliferate in full sunlight or in areas with standing water.” Rutgers
Per an article on North Georgia Master Gardners, “This weed can be controlled with herbicides, but there are very few that work and you must read and follow the label directions. Herbicides used for crabgrass control generally are fairly effective. The only herbicide specifically labeled for Japanese stiltgrass contains imazapic, but this can only be used on Bermuda grass. Fenoxaprop is also an effective control. Post emergence non-selective herbicides such as glyphosate and glufosinate provide excellent control with one or two applications but because they are non-selective they can damage or kill desirable plants. And again, always consult the herbicide label for details before applying them. For more information, contact me at the Gilmer County Extension office.”