How to Get Rid of Sage Grass in Tennessee

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Things You'll Need

  • Gloves

  • Glyphosate herbicide (with built-in pump sprayer)

  • Scissors

Sage grass, also commonly called broomsedge (Andropogon virginicus), is a grassy weed found in several eastern states including Tennessee, which lies in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5b to 8a. It self-seeds in open areas, including lawns and pastures, but there are no selective herbicides that control it. Sage grass is identifiable by its tall, clumping growth that turns brown and looks similar to a broom during the winter. Spot treatments are the best course of action for getting rid of sage grass since there are no selective herbicides available that control it. Sage grass grows in USDA plant hardiness zones 3 through 9.

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Step 1

Put on gloves, a long sleeved shirt, long pants, socks and shoes before handling or applying glyphosate.

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Step 2

Cut off the zip ties with scissors and connect the hose to the pump on the sprayer.

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Step 3

Push the yellow button and extend the wand on the sprayer handle. When it's fully extended, the yellow button will be in the "Spray" position.

Step 4

Pump the handle on the container 25 to 30 times to pressurize it.

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Step 5

Press the trigger to release the herbicide. Adjust the spray pattern by turning the white nozzle tip.

Step 6

Spray the clumps of sage grass with the glyphosate to cover them thoroughly. Avoid other grass or plants with the spray as much as possible.

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Step 7

Press the yellow button and push the wand until it snaps into place. Slide the wand into the holster on the container.

Step 8

Push the pump handle down, and then open the container to depressurize it. Tighten the lid and store the bottle in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.

Tip

Spray glyphosate on days with a temperature above 60 degrees Fahrenheit and calm winds.

Warning

Keep everyone off the grass until the glyphosate dries completely.

Glyphosate will kill other vegetation that it comes in contact with. Wait at least three days before reseeding any dead spots resulting from the application.

Avoid breathing the herbicide spray.

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