Appearance:

• Spurge is a summer annual weed that can be found in thnning, less vigorous, and stressed lawns.
• They can be identified by the opposite leaf arrangement o the stems.
• Spotted spurge has a reddish purple dot in the center of each leaf.

Problem:

• When the stems are broken, a milky latex sap will exude. This can cause skin irritation to some individuals,
• Plans can be pulled and bagged if soil is moist. Be sure to wear gloves to preventskin contact with the sap.

Solution Options:

• Pre- emergent herbicides that control crabgrass and broadleaf weeds can be applied in the spring to help prevent the invasion of this pesky weed.
• Post-emergent weed controls are not very effective due to the very slick or waxy leaf surfice.
• Maintaining a thick, healthy lawn will discourage the invasion of this weed since it will naturally choke out the plants. Proper watering, fertilization, and mowing turf higher (2/1/2-3″) and other good cultural practices will help in the control of prostrate spurges.