Nutgrass & Sedge Control
Nutgrass, also known as nutsedge or watergrass, is one of the most stubborn weeds that can invade your lawn. It thrives in warm temperatures, spreads aggressively, and is notoriously difficult to control. Understanding how nutgrass grows and the best methods for control can help keep your lawn healthy and weed-free.
Spread and Resilience
Nutgrass is a perennial weed that spreads through underground tubers called nutlets, which can quickly multiply, making it a persistent problem. A single plant can produce several hundred nutlets in one summer! Unlike common broadleaf weeds or grassy weeds, nutsedge requires a unique approach for effective control.
Nutsedge typically emerges in late May and grows actively through the heat of summer. While the first frost will kill its above-ground portion, the underground tubers remain viable, ready to sprout the following year.
Cultural Prevention
The best defense against nutsedge is a dense, healthy lawn that can naturally outcompete weeds. Here are some key prevention strategies:
Proper Turf Maintenance – Regular mowing at the correct height and appropriate fertilization strengthens your grass.
Irrigation Management – Nutsedge thrives in moist conditions, so avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage.
Hand-Pulling – If only a few plants are present, hand-pulling can help, but keep in mind that it won’t eliminate the underground tubers. Check for regrowth after a few weeks.
Is Nutgrass Control Included in My Program?
Yes! Our standard lawn care program includes spot treatment for nutgrass during regularly scheduled visits. We always bring the best herbicides available to tackle nutgrass effectively.
However, some lawns with widespread nutgrass infestations may require additional treatment. That’s why all of our service vehicles are equipped with a “rescue tank”—a secondary tank with specialized herbicides for more severe cases. This ensures we can address more significant outbreaks when needed while minimizing herbicide use overall.
These “rescue” treatments are FREE!
Expectations Vs. Reality
Nutgrass control requires patience. Even with the best herbicides on the market, significant reduction takes time. Here’s what you can expect:
After the first application, the nutgrass will begin to turn yellow.
After the second application, the plant will wilt and die.
Over two to three YEARS of treatments, viable tubers in the soil will be reduced by about 90%.
Consistent treatment is key to successfully controlling nutsedge, and our team is committed to providing the most effective solutions for your lawn.
Final Thoughts
Nutgrass is a tough opponent, but it can be managed effectively with proper prevention and a strategic herbicide approach. If you’re dealing with nutgrass in your lawn, let our expert team handle it with targeted treatments to ensure your grass stays healthy and weed-free!