The Garden Blog

Nutsedge is a perennial weed in the Cyperaceae family — a group of grass-like plants that love moist soil. The most common type found in lawns and gardens is yellow nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus).

Despite its grassy appearance, nutsedge is not a true grass. It features:

• Triangular stems
• Glossy, bright green leaves
• Underground tubers (nutlets) that make it tough to kill

Why Is Nutsedge a Problem?

• Grows Fast: Outpaces lawn grass during hot summer months
• Hard to Kill: Underground nutlets regenerate new plants after mowing or cutting
• Spreads Quickly: One plant can produce hundreds of offspring through rhizomes and tubers
• Ugly in Turf: It disrupts lawn uniformity with tall, coarse, bright green growth

How to Identify Nutsedge

Watch for:

• Bright, waxy leaves that grow upright
• Triangular stems (roll one between your fingers — you’ll feel the edges)
• Taller, faster growth than the rest of the lawn
• Tends to thrive in wet or poorly drained soil

How to Control Nutsedge

1. Cultural Control

• Fix Drainage Issues: Nutsedge thrives in soggy spots. Level out low areas and avoid overwatering.
• Encourage a Dense Lawn: A thick, healthy lawn helps suppress nutsedge over time by reducing available space and sunlight.

Important:
We do not recommend pulling nutsedge by hand.
Pulling leaves the underground nutlet behind, which quickly sprouts new growth — making the problem worse.

2. Chemical Control – Spray, Don’t Pull

For effective control, spray using a selective herbicide designed for nutsedge.

We recommend:
Fertilome Weed-Out Nutsedge Control

This powerful, easy-to-use herbicide targets yellow nutsedge without harming most established turfgrasses.

Available in:

• 16oz Concentrate – great for larger areas or custom mixing
• 32oz Ready-To-Use – pre-mixed for spot treatments
• 32oz Ready-To-Spray – connects directly to a garden hose for wide coverage

When to Apply:

• Spray when nutsedge is actively growing (typically late spring through summer)
• Do not mow 2 days before or after application
• Rainfast within hours — follow label directions for best results

order yours

3. Stay Consistent

Controlling nutsedge is a process. Because it regrows from underground nutlets, multiple applications may be necessary throughout the growing season. Monitor your lawn, and reapply as needed for long-term control.