Organic Control of Prostrate Spurge and Nutsedge in Bermuda Lawn

In Austin, TX, your Tif 419 Bermuda lawn has prostrate spurge (growing from sidewalk cracks!) and nutsedge after drought-induced water restrictions. You want organic control.

The Wiper Method: Targeted Glyphosate Application

While not "organic," this technique minimizes herbicide use and off-target damage:

1. Use a glyphosate concentrate labeled for wiper application (often dyed blue).
2. Soak a sponge or roller in concentrate; let drip until no longer dripping.
3. Wipe weed leaves only—avoid contact with Bermuda.
4. Color shows where herbicide touched.
5. Weeds die slowly (7–14 days).

Tools That Work

• Automotive windshield cleaner (sponge + squeegee)
• Small paint roller
• Commercial herbicide wiper

Why Not "Organic" Products?

No consistently effective organic herbicides exist for established perennial weeds like nutsedge. Vinegar, corn gluten, etc., only burn top growth; nutsedge tubers and spurge taproots survive.

Cultural Practices to Reduce Weeds

• Mow Bermuda at 0.5–1.5 inches (dense canopy shades weeds).
• Water deeply, infrequently (nutsedge loves constant moisture).
• Fertilize appropriately—don't overdo nitrogen.
• Core aerate annually to reduce compaction.

Nutsedge Reality Check

One Wisconsin field had 35 million yellow nutsedge tubers per acre. They spread by rhizomes, tubers, and basal shoots. Persistence, not a single treatment, is required.