Identifying and Controlling Nutsedge (Nutgrass) Organically

Nutsedge vs. Daylilies

A gardener asks if “dallies” (daylilies) and nutsedge are the same, and how to apply sugar for weed control.

Clarification

Daylilies are desirable ornamentals; nutsedge (Cyperus spp.) is a persistent weed. Sugar does not kill weeds directly—it feeds soil microbes, which build fertile soil that naturally suppresses weeds.

Organic Program Overview

• Broadcast 4–5 lbs sugar/1,000 sq ft, water in deeply.
• Add alfalfa meal, lava sand, and corn gluten meal for nutrients and pre‑emergent control.
• Water deeply once weekly (6+ inches) to encourage deep roots.
• Use baking soda spray (2 Tbsp/gal) for fungal issues.
• Compost kitchen scraps and yard waste to build soil biology.

Consistent organic feeding eliminates most weeds within a few seasons without chemicals.