Which summer annual weed is described as having a flat growth pattern and is easy to control?

Crabgrass is identified as a summer annual weed that exhibits a flat growth pattern, making it generally easier to control compared to other weeds. Its growth habit allows it to spread out close to the ground, which can help agents effectively target it during routine turf maintenance. Control methods for crabgrass are often well-established, including pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides, as well as cultural practices like maintaining healthy turf that can outcompete the weed.

Contrastingly, annual bluegrass tends to have a more upright and clumping growth habit, which can complicate control efforts. Foxtails have a similar growth pattern to crabgrass but can be more challenging to manage due to their rapid seed production and resilience. Tall fescue is not a weed but rather a turfgrass species, and thus does not fit into the category of summer annual weeds. By understanding the characteristics of crabgrass and its management, it becomes clear why it is classified in this context as more manageable compared to the other options.