If you’ve ever seen a lawn that’s been taken over by nutsedge, you know how unsightly and difficult it can be to get rid of. Nutsedge, otherwise known as nutgrass is a type of grass that is notoriously hard to control, and once it takes over a lawn, it can be very difficult to remove.
What is Nutsedge?
Nutsedge is a perennial plant, meaning that it lives for more than one year. It reproduces through its seeds, but it can also spread through its rhizomes, which are underground stems that send out new shoots. The tubers (often called “nutlets”) and rhizomes of nutsedge are very hardy and can survive in even the harshest conditions. Nutsedges grow well in virtually any type of soil. Established nutsedge plants can survive in dry soil, though they prefer moist soil. Nutsedge is also able to store large amounts of energy, which allows it to out-compete other plants for resources. Nutsedge is most commonly found in lawns, gardens, and agricultural fields.
What Does Nutsedge Look Like?
Nutsedge is often mistaken for regular grass, but there are a few key differences that can help you identify it. Nutsedge is a grass-like plant that can grow up to three feet tall. It has a thicker, more fibrous root system than grass. Additionally, it has a triangular stem and the leaves of nutsedge are much narrower than those of grass, and they have a V-shaped notch at the tip. Finally, nutsedge flowers are small and yellow, and they grow in clusters at the top of the plant. Nutsedge can be either purple or yellow in color, but the two types are very similar in appearance.
Purple vs. Yellow Nutsedge
Although purple and yellow nutsedge is very similar in appearance, there are a few key differences between the two.
Purple Nutsedge
Purple nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus) is typically found in warmer climates, and it grows best in soils that are high in clay content. The leaves of purple nutsedge are dark green, and the flowers are a deep purple color.
Yellow Nutsedge
Yellow nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus) is typically found in cooler climates, and it prefers soils that are loamy or sandy. The leaves of yellow nutsedge are a light yellow-green color, and the flowers are a pale yellow.
How to Remove Nutsedge
Although it is a tough plant, there are a few things you can do to kill nutsedge. One option is to use a nutsedge digger or weeder to remove the plant from your lawn. You can also try using herbicides or weed killers that contain the active ingredient glyphosate. Be sure to follow the directions on the label carefully, as misuse of herbicides can damage your lawn.
How to Control Nutsedge
The best way to prevent a nutsedge infestation is to maintain a healthy lawn. Nutsedge thrives in areas of weak or unhealthy grass, so be sure to fertilize and water your lawn regularly. Additionally, mow your lawn frequently to keep the grass short, which will help prevent nutsedge from taking over.
Trusted Lawn Care Experts
If you have found nutsedge in your lawn, our team at Green Group is here to help. Our local brands provide lawn care services to homeowners and commercial businesses to help them keep their lawns looking their best. We can help you identify and remove nutsedge, as well as prevent it from coming back. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
