Sedges (Cyperus spp.) are a common and persistent weed problem in lawns, gardens, and agricultural fields. Often mistaken for grasses, sedges have triangular stems and can thrive in wet or poorly drained soils. The best herbicide for sedges must effectively target the root system to prevent regrowth and spread.

This guide evaluates the most effective herbicides for controlling sedges, focusing on their active ingredients, application methods, and suitability for different environments. Whether you are managing a home lawn, golf course, or agricultural field, this article will help you choose the right herbicide for sedge control.

Best Herbicides for Sedges

1. Sedgehammer – Halosulfuron-methyl Herbicide

Sedgehammer is a selective herbicide specifically designed to control sedges, including yellow and purple nutsedge. Its active ingredient, halosulfuron-methyl, targets the root system of sedges, preventing regrowth and seed production.

Apply Sedgehammer at a rate of 0.9 grams per 1,000 sq ft during the early growth stage of sedges. The herbicide is rainfast within 4 hours and provides long-lasting control. Sedgehammer is safe for use around most turfgrass species.

University trials have demonstrated 90% control of sedges with Sedgehammer. Its selective action and low use rate make it a valuable tool for managing sedges in sensitive environments.

2. Image Kills Nutsedge – Imazaquin Herbicide

Image Kills Nutsedge is a specialized herbicide designed to target sedges and other tough weeds in lawns and turfgrass. Its active ingredient, imazaquin, inhibits weed growth by disrupting amino acid synthesis, effectively killing sedges without harming most turfgrass species.

Apply Image Kills Nutsedge at a rate of 1.5-2.5 ounces per gallon of water per 1,000 sq ft. For best results, apply during the early growth stage of sedges. Avoid application during hot or dry conditions, as this may reduce efficacy.

Field trials have shown that Image Kills Nutsedge achieves 90-95% control of sedges when applied correctly. Its selective action makes it a popular choice for homeowners and turf managers.

3. Dismiss – Sulfentrazone Herbicide

Dismiss is a selective herbicide that provides effective control of sedges in warm-season turfgrass. Its active ingredient, sulfentrazone, targets the foliage and root system of sedges, ensuring complete control.

Apply Dismiss at a rate of 4-8 fluid ounces per 1,000 sq ft during the early growth stage of sedges. The herbicide is rainfast within 2 hours and provides long-lasting control. Dismiss is safe for use around most turfgrass species.

University trials have demonstrated 90% control of sedges with Dismiss. Its selective action and effectiveness make it a popular choice for turf managers.

4. Certainty – Sulfosulfuron Herbicide

Certainty is a selective herbicide that provides effective control of sedges in warm-season turfgrass. Its active ingredient, sulfosulfuron, targets the foliage and root system of sedges, ensuring complete control.

Apply Certainty at a rate of 0.75-1.25 ounces per 1,000 sq ft during the early growth stage of sedges. The herbicide is rainfast within 4 hours and provides long-lasting control. Certainty is safe for use around most turfgrass species.

Field trials have shown 85-90% control of sedges with Certainty. Its selective action and effectiveness make it a popular choice for turf managers.

5. Roundup Pro Max – Glyphosate Herbicide

Roundup Pro Max is a non-selective herbicide that provides effective control of sedges in non-crop areas and spot treatments. Its active ingredient, glyphosate, targets the entire plant, including the roots, ensuring complete control.

Apply Roundup Pro Max at a rate of 22-44 fluid ounces per acre during the early growth stage of sedges. The herbicide is rainfast within 2 hours and provides quick results. Use caution near desirable plants, as glyphosate is non-selective.

Field trials have shown 95% control of sedges with Roundup Pro Max. Its effectiveness and quick action make it a popular choice for spot treatments and small infestations.

6. Drive XLR8 – Quinclorac Herbicide

Drive XLR8 is a selective herbicide that provides effective control of sedges in warm-season turfgrass. Its active ingredient, quinclorac, targets the foliage and root system of sedges, ensuring complete control.

Apply Drive XLR8 at a rate of 1.1-2.2 fluid ounces per 1,000 sq ft during the early growth stage of sedges. The herbicide is rainfast within 4 hours and provides long-lasting control. Drive XLR8 is safe for use around most turfgrass species.

Field trials have shown 85-90% control of sedges with Drive XLR8. Its selective action and effectiveness make it a popular choice for turf managers.

7. Tenacity – Mesotrione Herbicide

Tenacity is a selective herbicide that provides both pre- and post-emergent control of sedges. Its active ingredient, mesotrione, inhibits photosynthesis in weeds, causing them to turn white and die. Tenacity is particularly effective in cool-season turfgrass like Kentucky bluegrass and fescue.

Apply Tenacity at a rate of 0.5-1 fluid ounce per 1,000 sq ft during the early growth stage of sedges. The herbicide is rainfast within 2 hours and provides long-lasting control. Tenacity is safe for use around most turfgrass species.

University trials have demonstrated 90% control of sedges with Tenacity. Its dual-action formula and low use rate make it a valuable tool for managing sedges in sensitive environments.

8. Specticle – Indaziflam Herbicide

Specticle is a pre-emergent herbicide that provides long-lasting control of sedges. Its active ingredient, indaziflam, inhibits root growth in weeds, preventing them from establishing. Specticle is particularly effective in warm-season turfgrass like Bermuda grass and Zoysia grass.

Apply Specticle at a rate of 0.5-1 fluid ounce per 1,000 sq ft before sedges emerge. The herbicide is rainfast within 2 hours and provides long-lasting control. Specticle is safe for use around most turfgrass species.

Field trials have shown 95% control of sedges with Specticle. Its long-lasting residual activity makes it a popular choice for preventing sedge infestations.

9. Revolver – Foramsulfuron Herbicide

Revolver is a selective herbicide that provides effective control of sedges in warm-season turfgrass. Its active ingredient, foramsulfuron, targets the foliage and root system of sedges, ensuring complete control.

Apply Revolver at a rate of 1.5-2.5 fluid ounces per 1,000 sq ft during the early growth stage of sedges. The herbicide is rainfast within 4 hours and provides long-lasting control. Revolver is safe for use around most turfgrass species.

University trials have demonstrated 85-90% control of sedges with Revolver. Its selective action and effectiveness make it a popular choice for turf managers.

10. Atrazine – Pre- and Post-Emergent Herbicide

Atrazine is a versatile herbicide that provides both pre- and post-emergent control of sedges. Its active ingredient targets the root system of sedges, preventing regrowth and seed production. Atrazine is particularly effective in warm-season turfgrass like St. Augustine and Bermuda grass.

Apply Atrazine at a rate of 1-2 quarts per acre during the early growth stage of sedges. The herbicide is rainfast within 6 hours and provides long-lasting control. Use caution near desirable plants, as Atrazine can persist in the soil.

Field trials have demonstrated 85-90% control of sedges with Atrazine. Its dual-action formula and affordability make it a popular choice for large-scale infestations.

Buyer’s Tips for Sedge Herbicides

Identify Sedge Species
Apply Sedge Herbicide based on the type of sedge present – yellow nutsedge, purple nutsedge, or others.

Choose the Right Herbicide
Select Sedge Herbicide that is effective against the target sedge species and safe for use on the surrounding turf or plants.

Use Proper Adjuvants
Add non-ionic surfactant to Sedge Herbicide sprays for better leaf absorption.

Follow Label Rates
Measure Sedge Herbicide carefully – over-application can harm desirable plants.

Consider Soil Residual
Choose Sedge Herbicide with soil residual activity for long-term control.

Rotate Modes of Action
Alternate Sedge Herbicide chemistry to prevent resistance development.

Monitor for Regrowth
Follow up with additional Sedge Herbicide applications if regrowth occurs.

Conclusion

For most sedge infestations, Sedgehammer and Image Kills Nutsedge provide the most effective control due to their selective and residual activity. In sensitive environments, Dismiss and Tenacity offer selective control with minimal impact on desirable plants. Always apply Sedge Herbicide during the early growth stage and follow up with proper monitoring to ensure long-term control.