Yellow nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus). Photo: HGIC, U of MD Extension
Life cycle
Yellow nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus) is an invasive perennial; classified as a sedge not technically a grass. Its nativity to Maryland is uncertain.
Growth habit
Leaves are shiny, yellow-green, narrow, and grass-like; stems are 3-sided, triangular in cross-section.
Reproduction
From small nutlets (tubers) attached to rhizomes; may also spread by seeds.
Conditions that favor growth
Colonizes wet areas with poor drainage; diverting water or improving drainage can help reduce the weed infestation.
Management in lawns
Maintain healthy, dense turf that can compete and prevent weed establishment. Water lawns on an as-needed basis, not on a regular schedule (this includes when using an irrigation system).
Lawn Care
Mechanical management
Digging out or using an appropriate weeding tool to remove the underground 'nutlets' is the primary means of mechanical control of nutsedge. This is a viable option at the beginning of an infestation and on young weeds.
Manage Weeds Without Chemicals
Chemical management in lawns
Spot treat the areas that have nutsedge with a liquid, a selective herbicide that contains the active ingredient: Common Name: Halosulfuron; Trade Name: Sedgehammer and others or Common Name: Sulfentrazone
HerbicideOptions for Managing Common Lawn Weeds in Maryland
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