Species Muhlenberg's Sedge
lime-brown spikelets with green foliage

Muhlenberg's Sedge

Carex muehlenbergii var. muehlenbergii

Also Known As - Muhly Sedge
Muhlenberg's Sedge (Carex muehlenbergii var. muehlenbergii) is an enduring species of semi-evergreen sedge found in marshes, bogs and wet meadows. It features delicate mat-forming stems, and two-inch long leaves that are light green with prominent midribs. It produces small, reddish-brown flowers in winter and early spring that are well-suited for pollinators. This species is native to the eastern United States and prefers acidic soil with full sun or partial shade. Muhlenberg's Sedge thrives in moist soils and can be used to border ponds and streams or to provide expansive ground cover in moist, grassy areas.

Watering:

Minimal

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

Sun, Partial Shade

Soil:

Clay, Loam

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Troublesome Sedge should be watered regularly and deeply. It prefers moist soil, so it should be watered when the soil feels slightly dry to the touch. It is best to water in the morning or evening to minimize water loss due to evaporation. During the warmer months, Troublesome Sedge should be watered once or twice a week. During the cooler months, watering can be reduced to once every 2 weeks. If the weather is dry or extremely hot, watering may need to occur more frequently. It is important to not over-water, as this can lead to root rot.

sunlight

Troublesome Sedge prefers partial shade but will do best in 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. Early morning sun is ideal since it will help the plants warm up more quickly after a cold night. During the peak of summer, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to the plants as it will help protect them from the fierce heat of the late afternoon sun. The plants can tolerate some shade but not too much, as it may result in weaker growth and small, discolored leaves.

pruning

Troublesome Sedge (Carex molesta) should be pruned in late winter/early spring when the plant is dormant. The pruning should be limited to removing dead or damaged leaves and flowerheads, and thinning the plant if needed. Some people suggest pruning this species back to the ground annually to promote a bushy growth habit. However, this can have a detrimental effect, so it is best to avoid this approach unless needed for overall plant health.

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