- 1). Spray dichlobenil, a pre-emergent herbicide over the area where you encountered a nutsedge problem in the past or where you suspect growth. The pre-emergent herbicide prevents the tiny seeds from germinating in the ground, thus controlling the problem.
- 2). Spray a post-emergent, selective herbicide, such as halosulfuron, over tiny nutsedge plants before they produce five leaves. During this time, each weed plant draws energy from the foliage, and the herbicide will translocate to different parts. Spray the herbicide again on weeds that have not died four weeks after the first application.
- 3). Spray nutsedge weeds with glyphosate, a non-selective, post-emergent herbicide that kills the plant along with its roots. For best results, apply the herbicide when the weeds are actively growing. Rake dead weeds five to seven days after the application and discard, and repeat application over stubborn weeds.
- 4). Lay a landscape fabric sheet over the weeds to smother them and prevent direct access to sunlight and water. Place bricks or stones over the edges of the sheet so it stays in place during wind and rain. The landscape sheet suppresses the weeds in four to eight weeks.
- 5). Pull out nutsedge plants from your yard, if the infestation is small or only a few weeds exist. Loosen the soil around the weed with a hoe in spring, when it is small, and pull it out along with its roots. Because the rhizomes spread deep into the soil and extend beyond the perimeter of the plant, dig 8 inches deep and 6 to 8 inches around the weed plant to ensure you collect all roots. Inspect the soil and collect any roots you may have left behind when disposing the plants.
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