Nutsedge, often called nutgrass, is one of the most stubborn lawn weeds homeowners face. Unlike ordinary grassy weeds, nutsedge grows from underground tubers (nutlets), making it much harder to eliminate with standard weed killers. If you simply pull it by hand, chances are it will return within weeks.
If you’re looking for a reliable solution, here are six of the best nutsedge killers available.
Best Nutsedge Killer
1. Ortho Nutsedge Killer for Lawns Ready-to-Spray
- Kill nutsedge (nutgrass), kyllinga and over 50 other tough weeds with Ortho Nutsedge Killer for Lawns Ready-to-Spray
- This lawn weed killer also controls wild violet and dollarweed, and selectively controls other listed sedge and broadlea…
- Weed killer for lawns may be used on well-established Northern and Southern turf grasses
For homeowners who want convenience, Ortho Nutsedge Killer is an excellent choice. It comes in a ready-to-spray bottle that attaches directly to a garden hose, eliminating the need for measuring or mixing.
The sulfentrazone-based formula provides quick visible results, often causing weeds to yellow within a few days.
Features
- Ready-to-spray hose-end applicator
- No mixing required
- Controls yellow and purple nutsedge
- Works on kyllinga weeds as well
- Rainproof after drying
- Safe for many northern and southern lawn grasses
- Covers large lawn areas quickly
2. SedgeHammer+ Turf Herbicide
- Sedgehammer Herbicide is for use in established lawns, ornamental turfgrass, and landscape areas; Can also be applied in…
- Controls nutsedge by moving through the plant and affecting the underground growing points (rhizomes and tubers)
- Also suppresses green kyllinga
SedgeHammer+ has earned a reputation as one of the most effective selective herbicides for controlling yellow and purple nutsedge. Its active ingredient, halosulfuron-methyl, penetrates deep into the plant and targets underground tubers, helping reduce regrowth.
Although results may take 10 to 21 days to become visible, it often provides longer-lasting control than many fast-acting alternatives.
Features
- Contains halosulfuron-methyl
- Kills yellow and purple nutsedge
- Targets underground tubers
- Safe for most established turfgrasses
- Includes surfactant for improved absorption
- Excellent for spot treatments
- Professional-grade formula
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3. Atticus Empero Nutsedge Killer
- TRUSTED PERFORMER: Empero contains 75% halosulfuron-methyl; the active ingredient professionals trust most for control o…
- TOTAL NUTSEDGE TAKEDOWN: Empero travels down to the root system tubers for complete top-to-bottom weed kill.
- USE ON NEARLY ANY LAWN: Empero is gentle to most any established warm- or cool-season turf – including bluegrass, fescue…
Atticus Empero contains the same active ingredient found in SedgeHammer+, making it a popular alternative for homeowners seeking professional performance at a competitive price.
The concentrated formula mixes easily in a pump sprayer and provides excellent control when applied during active weed growth.
Features
- Contains 75% halosulfuron-methyl
- Professional-strength formula
- Excellent value for large properties
- Controls yellow and purple nutsedge
- Works in established lawns
- Compatible with many turfgrass varieties
- Ideal for repeat seasonal treatments
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4. Bonide Sedge Ender Crabgrass & Nutsedge Killer
- Sedge Ender Weed Control kills unwanted weeds without killing your lawn; kills yellow nutsedge, crabgrass, goosegrass, f…
- Use on both warm and cool season grasses for complete coverage; safe for bluegrass, ryegrass, fescue, Bermuda grass and …
- This product is designed for application before or after weeds have sprouted, it kills the roots and shoots of existing …
Bonide Sedge Ender is designed for homeowners who want to eliminate multiple weed types with a single application. In addition to nutsedge, it also targets crabgrass and several common broadleaf weeds.
Its ready-to-use spray bottle makes spot treatment simple around the yard.
Features
- Kills nutsedge and crabgrass
- Ready-to-use spray bottle
- Controls numerous broadleaf weeds
- Suitable for spot treatments
- Fast visible results
- Easy application
- Designed for residential lawns
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5. Tenacity Turf Herbicide
- Tenacity is a systemic pre-emergence and post-emergence herbicide for the selective contact and residual control of weed…
- When applied as a pre-emergent, weeds absorb Tenacity during emergence from the soil.
- Target pests: Barnyardgrass, Carpetweed, Chickweed, Clover, Crabgrass (large & smooth), Dandelion, Foxtail, Goosegrass, …
While Tenacity is primarily known for controlling crabgrass and many broadleaf weeds, it also suppresses and controls young nutsedge infestations. It offers the added benefit of being safe during lawn renovation and overseeding, making it a versatile lawn care product.
Features
- Active ingredient: Mesotrione
- Controls dozens of lawn weeds
- Helps suppress nutsedge
- Can be used during seeding
- Selective for many cool-season grasses
- Concentrated formula
- Excellent for integrated weed management
6. IMAGE Kills Nutsedge Concentrate
- Image label
- Image is a postemergent, selective herbicide for use in southern turf grass and selected ornamentals
- Manufactured in United States
IMAGE has long been a trusted brand for lawn weed control. This concentrate is specifically formulated for yellow and purple nutsedge and works well when applied early while weeds are actively growing.
Its concentrated formula treats a large area, making it economical for homeowners with larger lawns.
Features
- Concentrated liquid formula
- Targets yellow and purple nutsedge
- Covers large treatment areas
- Suitable for warm-season lawns
- Easy pump sprayer application
- Economical for repeated treatments
- Trusted lawn care brand
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How to Choose the Best Nutsedge Killer
Not every herbicide works equally well against nutsedge. Consider these factors before buying:
Active Ingredient
The active ingredient determines how effectively the herbicide kills the weed.
- Halosulfuron offers excellent long-term control by targeting underground tubers.
- Sulfentrazone provides faster visible results and works well for spot treatments.
- Mesotrione helps suppress nutsedge while controlling many additional weeds.
Lawn Type
Always verify that the product is labeled safe for your grass species, whether you have Bermuda, Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, zoysia, centipede, or St. Augustine grass.
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Ready-to-Use vs Concentrate
Ready-to-use products are convenient for small infestations.
Concentrates are more economical if you have large lawns or recurring nutsedge problems.
Coverage
Small bottles may be sufficient for occasional spot treatments, while concentrates provide much better value for larger properties.
Tips for Getting the Best Results
Proper application significantly improves control.
- Spray when nutsedge is actively growing.
- Do not mow immediately before or after application.
- Apply to dry foliage.
- Follow all label instructions carefully.
- Avoid watering until the recommended drying period has passed.
- Repeat treatment if new plants emerge from dormant tubers.
Why Pulling Nutsedge Usually Doesn’t Work
Many homeowners assume pulling nutsedge is the quickest solution. Unfortunately, this often makes the problem worse.
Nutsedge spreads through underground rhizomes and nutlets. Pulling usually removes only the visible leaves while leaving underground tubers behind, allowing new plants to emerge within a short time.
Selective herbicides move through the plant into these underground storage structures, providing much better long-term control.
FAQs
What kills nutsedge permanently?
Products containing halosulfuron-methyl generally provide the most complete long-term control because they target both the visible plant and underground tubers. Multiple applications may still be necessary for severe infestations.
What is the fastest nutsedge killer?
Sulfentrazone-based products, such as Ortho Nutsedge Killer, typically produce visible yellowing within a few days, although complete control may take longer.
Can I spray nutsedge without harming my lawn?
Yes. Most selective nutsedge herbicides are safe for established turf when used according to the manufacturer’s directions. Always confirm xathat your grass species appears on the product label.
When should I spray nutsedge?
The best time is during late spring through summer when nutsedge is actively growing. Young plants are easier to control than mature ones.
Final Thoughts
Nutsedge is one of the toughest lawn weeds to eliminate, but using the right herbicide can dramatically improve your chances of success. SedgeHammer+ remains the top choice for long-term control, while Ortho Nutsedge Killer offers excellent convenience and fast visible results. Atticus Empero provides professional-grade performance, Bonide Sedge Ender tackles multiple weed types, Tenacity adds versatility for lawn renovation, and IMAGE Kills Nutsedge is an economical concentrate for larger lawns.
Choosing the right product for your lawn type, applying it at the correct time, and following the label instructions will give you the best chance of finally getting rid of stubborn nutsedge for good.
