What is the primary mechanism that explains why onion grass is described as an unwelcome takeover of the manicured lawn?
It spreads via small, clustered bulbs that choke out desirable turf grasses.
The aggressive nature of onion grass in turf settings is not due to simple surface growth or deep rooting, but rather its method of propagation. It spreads through small, clustered bulbs situated beneath the soil surface. These bulbs facilitate dense growth, often described as clumping, which physically chokes out the surrounding, desired turf grasses, leading to patchy, uneven lawn appearance. This growth habit, fueled by persistent underground storage organs, makes the plant difficult to eliminate completely, allowing it to maintain a dominant presence year after year.

#Videos
Edible Onion Grass / Crow Garlic / Field Garlic (Allium vineale)
What to Do With Wild Onions and Garlic in Your Lawn - YouTube