Sedgehammer Herbicide for Nutsedge & Turf Grass Control
Maintaining a pristine lawn is every homeowner’s dream, but persistent weeds like nutgrass and mullumbimby couch can quickly turn your turf into a battleground.
At Robert’s Turf, we understand the frustration of dealing with these invasive sedges that seem to grow faster than your desired grass.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Sedgehammer herbicide – the professional-grade solution that can transform your lawn from weed-infested to weed-free.
What Is Sedgehammer Herbicide?
Sedgehammer herbicide is a premium water dispersable granule formulation containing 750g/kg halosulfuron methyl as its active ingredient.
This selective, post-emergent herbicide represents a breakthrough in nutgrass and mullumbimby control technology, specifically designed to target these troublesome sedges without affecting lawn health.
The herbicide works through systemic action, moving through the plant’s vascular system to attack the underground growing points and tubers that make sedge control so challenging.
Unlike traditional weed killers that only address surface growth, Sedgehammer penetrates deep into the root system, ensuring complete eradication of both nutgrass and mullumbimby couch.
How Sedgehammer Works
Sedgehammer operates as a Group B herbicide, inhibiting ALS (Acetolactate synthase) – a key enzyme in the production of branched chain amino acids. When applied to actively growing weeds, the herbicide is absorbed into the leaf tissue within 24-48 hours and enters the plant’s vascular system. It then travels to the base of the leaves where the growth point is located, halting critical amino acid production within the plant.
This targeted approach ensures that nutgrass and mullumbimby are eliminated at their source, preventing the regeneration that makes these weeds so persistent. The formulation is designed to be safely used on most lawn varieties, making it an ideal choice for homeowners seeking professional-grade results.
Benefits of Using Sedgehammer for Nutsedge Control
Sedgehammer offers numerous advantages over traditional herbicide options, making it the preferred choice for nutsedge control among turf professionals and homeowners alike.
Exceptional Sedge Control
The halosulfuron methyl active ingredient provides excellent sedge control with proven effectiveness against both nutgrass and mullumbimby couch. The herbicide has demonstrated superior performance in controlling mature nutgrass populations and high populations of established sedges.
Turf Safety
One of Sedgehammer’s most significant benefits is its exceptional safety profile on lawn varieties. The herbicide can be safely used on buffalo, couch, and zoysia. This broad compatibility ensures that homeowners can confidently treat their lawn without fear of damage to desirable grass.
Systemic Activity
Sedgehammer has systemic activity that moves through the plant and removes the sedge’s underground growing points. This comprehensive approach ensures that the herbicide eliminates not just visible growth but also the tubers and rhizomes that allow nutgrass to regenerate.
Cost-Effective Solution
With its low active ingredient output and quality dry flowable formulation, Sedgehammer offers excellent value for money. The herbicide is highly concentrated, meaning small amounts provide effective control over large areas.
No Odour and Easy Application
The formulation is designed to be odourless and easy to use, making applications more pleasant for homeowners. The water dispersible granule format ensures consistent mixing and application.
Where Can You Use Sedgehammer?
Sedgehammer is registered for use in a wide range of areas and lawn varieties, making it a versatile solution for nutsedge control.
Approved Turf Varieties
The herbicide is safely approved for use on:
- Bent grass (including bent varieties)
- Buffalo grass
- Couch (including blue couch and QLD blue varieties)
- Kikuyu grass
- Perennial ryegrass
- Tall fescue
- Zoysia
Application Areas
Sedgehammer can be used in various settings:
- Residential lawns
- Commercial turf areas
- Golf courses
- Sports fields
- Public recreation areas
- Landscaped areas with established grass
Specific Considerations
When planning your applications, consider that Sedgehammer is most effective on actively growing weeds. The herbicide should be applied when nutgrass leaf growth is greater than 5 cm or when mullumbimby couch leaf growth is greater than 2 cm.
How to Mix and Apply Sedgehammer Effectively
Proper mixing and application are crucial for achieving optimal results with Sedgehammer. Following the correct procedures ensures maximum effectiveness while maintaining lawn safety.
Mixing Instructions
Apply Sedgehammer at a rate of 1.3g per 10L of water to treat an area of 100 square metres. The product comes with a measuring spoon included for accurate dosing.
| Application Rate | Water Volume | Coverage Area |
| 1.3g | 10L | 100 square metres |
| 0.63g | 5L | 50 square metres |
| 2.6g | 20L | 200 square metres |
Application Process
- Measure the treatment area to determine square metres coverage needed
- Use the measuring spoon to obtain the correct amount of Sedgehammer
- Mix thoroughly with water in your spray tank
- Apply evenly across the target area
- Ensure complete coverage of weed foliage
Equipment Requirements
Use a quality sprayer with flat fan nozzles to apply at least 80L/ha of water for uniform coverage. For smaller areas, a knapsack sprayer is suitable for spot treatments.
Surfactant Addition
For optimal results, add a non-ionic surfactant at 200mL per 100L of water. This enhances plant uptake and improves herbicide effectiveness.
When and How Often to Apply Sedgehammer
Timing is critical for Sedgehammer success. Understanding when to apply the herbicide and how often repeat applications may be required ensures optimal nutsedge control.
Optimal Application Timing
Apply Sedgehammer in spring or summer when weeds are actively growing. The ideal timing is:
- Spring summer period when soil temperatures are warming
- When nutgrass leaf growth exceeds 5 cm
- When mullumbimby couch leaf growth exceeds 2 cm
Seasonal Considerations
Spring applications are most effective because nutgrass plants are young and haven’t yet formed extensive tuber systems. Early summer treatments can still be effective but may require repeat applications for mature nutgrass populations.
Repeat Application Requirements
With mature nutgrass plants or high populations, repeat applications may be required. Applications should be spaced 6-10 weeks apart to allow the herbicide to work through the plant system effectively.
Weather Considerations
Avoid applications when:
- Heavy rain is expected within 4 hours
- Temperatures exceed 85°F (29°C)
- Weeds are under drought stress
Visible Results: What to Expect After Application
Understanding the timeline and progression of Sedgehammer action helps set realistic expectations for treatment results.
Initial Response Timeline
Sedgehammer is absorbed into leaf tissue within 24-48 hours after application. However, visible symptoms may not appear immediately due to the herbicide’s systemic mode of action.
Visual Symptom Development
| Timeline | Expected Results |
| 24-48 hours | Herbicide absorption begins |
| 5-7 days | Initial growth cessation |
| 10-14 days | Yellowing and browning of leaves |
| 2-4 weeks | Complete plant death |
Factors Affecting Results
Several factors influence how quickly you’ll see results:
- Weed growth stage (younger plants respond faster)
- Environmental conditions (warm, moist conditions accelerate activity)
- Plant health and stress levels
- Proper application technique
What to Look For
Successful Sedgehammer applications will show:
- Gradual yellowing of nutgrass leaves
- Cessation of new growth
- Browning and death of treated plants
- Absence of regrowth from treated areas
Common Sedgehammer Application Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common application errors ensures optimal herbicide performance and prevents lawn damage.
Timing Mistakes
Applying Sedgehammer at the wrong time reduces effectiveness:
- Don’t apply to weeds that are too mature or stressed
- Avoid applications during extreme weather conditions
- Don’t apply when rain is forecast within 4 hours
Mowing Errors
Proper mowing timing is crucial for herbicide success:
- Don’t mow for 2 days before application
- Avoid mowing for 2 days after application
- This allows adequate leaf surface for herbicide absorption
Application Rate Mistakes
Using incorrect rates compromises results:
- Don’t underdose – this leads to poor control
- Don’t overdose – this can damage turf
- Always use the measuring spoon for accurate dosing
Weather-Related Errors
Environmental conditions significantly impact herbicide effectiveness:
- Don’t apply during windy conditions (over 10 mph)
- Avoid applications on wet foliage
- Don’t apply when temperatures are too high or low
Sedgehammer vs. Other Nutsedge Herbicides
Understanding how Sedgehammer compares to other nutsedge herbicides helps you make informed decisions for your lawn care needs.
Sedgehammer vs. Sulfentrazone Products
| Feature | Sedgehammer | Sulfentrazone |
| Active Ingredient | Halosulfuron methyl | Sulfentrazone |
| Mode of Action | ALS inhibitor | PPO inhibitor |
| Speed of Action | 2-4 weeks | 3-7 days |
| Turf Safety | Excellent | Good |
| Repeat Applications | May be required | Often required |
Sedgehammer vs. Bentazon Products
Sedgehammer offers superior turf safety compared to bentazon-based products, with broader grass compatibility and longer-lasting results.
Sedgehammer vs. Imazosulfuron
Both herbicides use similar modes of action, but Sedgehammer has a longer track record and more extensive turf safety data.
Why Choose Sedgehammer?
Sedgehammer stands out for its:
- Exceptional turf safety across varieties
- Proven effectiveness against nutgrass and mullumbimby
- Professional-grade formulation
- Long-lasting results
Is Sedgehammer Safe Around Pets, Kids, and the Environment?
Safety is a primary concern when using any herbicide around family and pets. Sedgehammer has an excellent safety profile when used according to label instructions.
Pet and Child Safety
Sedgehammer is safe for people and pets once the application has dried completely. Key safety guidelines include:
- Keep children and pets out of treated areas during application
- Allow 1-2 hours for the herbicide to dry before allowing access
- Follow all label precautions and safety instructions
Environmental Considerations
Sedgehammer’s selective action means it targets specific weeds without harming beneficial plants or grass. The herbicide breaks down naturally in the environment and doesn’t persist in soil for extended periods.
Application Safety
When applying Sedgehammer:
- Wear appropriate protective equipment
- Avoid application during windy conditions
- Follow all label instructions precisely
- Store the product safely away from children and pets
Frequently Asked Questions About Sedgehammer
Q: How long does Sedgehammer take to work?
A: Sedgehammer is absorbed within 24-48 hours, with visible results appearing in 10-14 days. Complete plant death typically occurs within 2-4 weeks.
Q: Can I use Sedgehammer on all grass types?
A: Sedgehammer is safely approved for bent grass, buffalo, couch, kikuyu, perennial ryegrass, tall fescue and zoysia. Always check the label for specific varieties.
Q: How often can I apply Sedgehammer?
A: Repeat applications may be required 6-10 weeks apart for mature nutgrass or high populations.
Q: What’s the shelf life of Sedgehammer?
A: When stored properly in a cool, dry place, Sedgehammer can last 2-5 years.
Q: Do I need to add surfactant?
A: Adding a non-ionic surfactant at 200mL per 100L of water enhances herbicide uptake and improves results.
Where to Buy Sedgehammer and How to Store It
Sedgehammer is available through professional turf suppliers and specialized retailers. For Queensland homeowners, Robert’s Turf offers Sedgehammer through their online store.
Purchasing Options
Robert’s Turf provides Sedgehammer in convenient 25g packages, perfect for residential applications. You can purchase directly here: https://www.robertsturf.com.au/product/sledgehammer-herbicide-25g/.
Storage Requirements
Proper storage ensures Sedgehammer maintains its effectiveness:
- Store in the original container
- Keep in a cool, dry place
- Protect from direct sunlight
- Ensure containers are tightly sealed
- Keep away from children and pets
Package Contents
Each Sedgehammer package includes:
- Water dispersible granule formulation
- Measuring spoon for accurate dosing
- Detailed application instructions
- Safety and handling guidelines
Final Tips for Successful Nutsedge Control with Sedgehammer
Achieving long-term nutsedge control with Sedgehammer requires a comprehensive approach combining proper application techniques with good lawn management practices.
Timing Is Everything
Apply Sedgehammer when weeds are actively growing and conditions are optimal. Spring and early summer applications provide the best results for nutgrass control.
Patience Pays Off
Nutsedge control often requires 2-3 years of consistent treatment to reduce viable tubers in the soil by 90%. Be patient and maintain regular applications as needed.
Combine with Cultural Practices
Enhance Sedgehammer effectiveness by:
- Maintaining healthy turf through proper fertilization
- Improving drainage to reduce weed-favoring conditions
- Regular mowing to stress nutsedge plants
- Overseeding thin areas to increase grass competition
Monitor and Maintain
Regular lawn inspection helps identify nutsedge early when it’s easiest to control. Keep records of treatment areas and timing to track results and plan future applications.
Professional Support
At Robert’s Turf, we’re committed to helping you achieve the perfect lawn. Our team provides ongoing support and advice to ensure you obtain the best results from Sedgehammer applications.
Got a question? Just call us—help is always at hand.
Call us today on 07 5478 9438
Visit our turf farms at:
Roberts Turf Supplies Sunshine Coast
520, Chevallum Road,
Chevallum, QLD 4555
https://maps.app.goo.gl/yRud5D78NqBZE1fs6
Roberts Turf Supplies Gympie
54 Wide Bay Hwy
Bellsbridge QLD 4570
https://maps.app.goo.gl/7ChiZSGzjoAPoFMh7