The sheaths of orchardgrass are strongly compressed and flattened. Other features of orchardgrass are the long, membranous ligule and the open-panicle seedheads. This species is a perennial weed that has a strong garlic or onionlike odor when cut. It is one of the first weeds to emerge in early spring. Wild garlic produces long, slender, mostly hollow leaves that are dark green and covered by a waxy substance.
Leaves emerge from underground bulblets that are covered by thin, papery scales.
Flowers may be present on uncut stems and can be white, pink, or purple. Wild garlic is more common in Pennsylvania and has hollow leaves. Depending on the growth stage and time of year, it may be difficult to distinguish between these two species. Yellow nutsedge is not a true grass but a member of the sedge family. Plants in this family are characterized by erect, triangular stems and a preference for moist or wet areas.