Nutsedge

WHAT IS NUTSEDGE

Nutsedge, or nutgrass, is a particularly aggressive weed that commonly infests lawns and other landscapes. Once established, it requires specialized herbicide to remove. The plant’s underground system of tubers, known as nutlets, allows the plant to spread and persist through multiple seasons.

SIGN OF NUTSEDGE

Nutsedge plants have distinctive triangular or V-shaped stems that are thicker and stiffer than most grasses. The leaves are grass-like, light green, and glossy. They often grow taller and faster than surrounding turf grass or plants. They typically grow underground tubers, known as nutlets, which are small, bulbous structures that produce new shoots. These nutlets can be found attached to the roots of the plant and resemble small, tan or brown nuts or seeds. Compared to grasses, nutsedge has wider leaf blades that are typically darker green and have a shiny appearance. The leaves may also be arranged in sets of three, giving them a unique appearance.

How to Treat

  1. Prevention – Regularly mowing your lawn or landscape can help suppress nutsedge growth. Keep the grass at a recommended height to shade and weaken the nutsedge plants. For small infestations or isolated patches, hand-pulling can be effective. Make sure to remove the entire plant, including the underground tubers (nutlets).
  2. Treatment – There are selective herbicides that target nutsedge while sparing desirable plants, as well as non-selective herbicides that will kill any vegetation they come into contact with. Consider using a post-emergent herbicide to target actively growing nutsedge or a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent nutsedge from sprouting.
 
 

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