Controlling Grassy Weeds in Dwarf Mondo Grass

Two years after planting dwarf mondo grass sprigs 4 inches apart, grassy weeds have invaded the bare spaces between plants. Here's how to tackle them without harming your groundcover.

Selective Herbicide Options

Sethoxydim (Vantage) is the top choice for grassy weed control in mondo grass. It targets grasses while sparing broadleaf plants and mondograss. Imazaquin (Image for Nutsedge) is also labeled for use on most groundcovers and controls nutsedge plus some broadleaf weeds.

Application Tips

• Apply when weeds are actively growing (spring through fall).
• Follow label rates precisely—mondo grass is sensitive to overdose.
• Add a non-ionic surfactant for better leaf coverage.
• Avoid mowing 2-3 days before and after application.

Finding Vantage

Vantage can be hard to locate at local garden centers. Cooper Seeds in Auburn (cooperseeds.com) carries it. Consider ordering online if unavailable locally.

Non-Chemical Alternatives

Hand-pulling when soil is moist, maintaining thick mondo grass through proper fertilization, and spot-treating with vinegar-based herbicides (carefully!) can supplement or replace chemical control.