Controlling Sandbur (Burgrass)

—Ronda Pearson, Dalhart, TX

A. Sandbur (or burgrass) is a native grass that's mostly an annual, but self-sows readily. It's found on sandy soils and trails along, rooting at the nodes (stems). The roots aren't very extensive, so cultivating the soil should kill it. Try not to let it go to seed, because the seed can last for years in the soil. If you're growing a garden in that area, I'd just till and cultivate the soil frequently to kill the burgrass. If you're planting a lawn, start over by tilling under the soil, amending it with compost and planting a tough grass such as buffalo grass that will crowd out any weeds.

—National Gardening Association