Sedges

Garden Problems , Lawn Problems

Sedges have similarities to grasses. They can be weedy in turf, flowerbeds and waste places.

Identify the problem
Most sedges are perennial and many form rhizomatous root systems. The leaves are grrass-like. Thy form flower stems with flowers arranged in spikelets (spiky seed heads) these are usually green or brown.
How to solve the problem
- Spray entire plant with Weed Weapon Extra Strength concentrate made up with Dye & Stick or Weed Weapon Rapid Action ready to use.
- Alternatively cut down the rush and immediately paint the cut ends with Weed Weapon Invade Gel.
Did you know?
- Do you know how to tell the difference between grasses, sedges and rushes? Students of botany use the rhyme:
  'Sedges have edges,
  Rushes are round,
  Grasses have nodes from their tips to the ground.'
- This is useful but not always the case. Grasses have leaves in two rows, their stems are hollow, with nodes wider than the stem. Sedges have stems that are triangular in cross section and if they have leaves there are three rows. Rushes have cylindrical leaves.
- You can find more information in the excellent Illustrated Guide to the Common Grasses, Sedges and Rushes of New Zealand. Published by the NZ Plant Protection Society.