How does crab grass survive in temperate regions like NJ when it is a tropical plant (hot and dry weather)?

Question

I need this for my homework, please provide sources with your answer. No fooling around. Thank you.

Answer 1

Indeed crab grass grows from seed each year. This is why, if you detest it in your lawn, the crab grass preventer must be applied in the spring before the seeds germinate.

All it needs after a rest (winter in NJ) is a little open space (thick lawns do not get crab grass) and sun (its light and warmth). It spreads itself wide keeping the area from growing normal cold season grasses and drops its' seeds straight down.

Get an "A".

Answer 2

I believe it goes to seed like many northern annual weeds do