If you’ve noticed patches of grass that seem to grow faster than the rest of your lawn—or if you’re mowing one area more than others—you might be dealing with nutsedge, commonly known as “water grass.”
This aggressive weed loves exactly the kind of warm, soggy weather we’ve been having, and if you’re seeing it now, you’re not alone.
What Is Nutsedge?
Nutsedge is a persistent, fast-growing weed that looks a lot like regular grass—but grows taller, faster, and with a thicker, triangular stem. It thrives in warm temperatures and especially loves wet, poorly drained, depressed or low-lying areas of the lawn.
That’s why after heavy rains or extended watering, it often makes a surprise appearance.
Why Is It Showing Up Now?
Warm weather + moisture = nutsedge heaven.
Conditions like summer heat combined with frequent rain or overwatering create the perfect environment for nutsedge to thrive. If you have any compacted soil or areas where water tends to pool, you’re even more likely to see it pop up.
How Do You Treat Nutsedge?
Nutsedge is tough—but not invincible.
It can’t be prevented pre-emergence like some other weeds. Treatment is only effective once it’s actively growing, which is why we use targeted post-emergent products. These applications will control the nutsedge that’s visible now, but because it germinates in waves, often in the same areas, repeat applications are often necessary for lasting control.
Will It Come Back?
In short: probably.
Nutsedge is a survivor. Its tubers and seeds can lay dormant in the soil for up to 10 years, waiting for just the right conditions to return. So yes, even with treatment, it may reappear in the future—but consistent care and control efforts make a big difference.
What Can You Do to Help?
While chemical treatments are key, there’s a lot you can do to make your lawn less appealing to nutsedge:
- ✅ Improve drainage to keep water from pooling
- 🚫 Avoid overwatering—especially in shaded or low areas
- 📉 Level out low, depressed spots in your lawn where moisture collects
- 🌱 Promote overall lawn health to crowd out weeds naturally
A healthier lawn = fewer opportunities for weeds like nutsedge to take over.
💡 Bonus Tip:
Nutsedge grows faster than your lawn. If one area always seems to be a step ahead of your mower, chances are nutsedge is back. That’s your cue to act early!
