Broomsedge Control in Pastures: Management Over Herbicides

Broomsedge (Andropogon virginicus) is a native perennial grass that invades overgrazed, low-fertility pastures. No selective herbicide controls it well—management is the solution.

Integrated Control Strategy

1. Soil test & amend: Lime and fertilize per test for desired forage grasses.
2. Prevent overgrazing: Maintain 3–4 inch residual height; rest paddocks.
3. Spot-treat: Walk pastures in early summer; spray individual clumps with glyphosate.
4. Overseed: Introduce competitive forages (fescue, bermuda, clover) in fall.

Why Herbicides Fail

Broomsedge is a grass—selective grass herbicides kill your forage too. Broadleaf herbicides don't touch it. Glyphosate spot treatment is the only chemical option, and it's non-selective.

Long-Term Outlook

With consistent fertility, grazing management, and spot removal, broomsedge declines over 2–3 years as desirable grasses outcompete it.