IFAS For questions or comments regarding this publication contact Paul Mislevy Smutgrass is a serious weed problem in many bahiagrass pastures of the southeastern U.S. particularly Florida. The reddish seeds, which may remain stuck to the seed head for sometime after maturing, are spread mainly by adhering to livestock, or by water, and may remain viable for two or more years. Smutgrass produces in excess of 45,000 seeds per plant with over 1400 seeds per head.
Seed production takes place throughout the growing season.
Smutgrass plants are generally unpalatable to cattle. However, cattle will readily consume the regrowth of smutgrass for up to two weeks following a burn or mowing. Research at Ona has indicated that mowing does not control smutgrass, but does help spread the seed. Under continuous close mowing, plant diameter decreased but number of plants increased. When mowing stopped, plants recovered to their former density.