Spurge

Scientific Name:
Euphorbia spp. (various species)
Common Names:
Spotted spurge, prostrate spurge, garden spurge
Family:
Euphorbiaceae
General Description:
Spurge is a low-growing annual weed with small oval leaves, often with a reddish spot, and a milky sap when broken.
Related Weeds:
Purslane, knotweed, chickweed

What is Spurge?

Spurge is a common annual weed found in lawns and gardens across South Carolina. It thrives in hot, dry conditions and can often be found in thin or stressed areas of turf. Spurge forms a flat, mat-like growth that can spread up to 2 feet in diameter. The leaves are small, oval-shaped, and arranged oppositely on the stems. Many species have a characteristic reddish spot in the center of each leaf. When the plant is broken, it exudes a milky white sap that can cause skin irritation in some people. Spurge produces tiny flowers and can set seed quickly, making it a prolific spreader.

Controlling Spurge Growth:

There are four ways to control Spurge. We will break down the 4 ways with pros and cons of each control method.

Hand-pulling: This method can be effective for small infestations, especially when the soil is moist. Spurge has a central taproot, making it relatively easy to remove. However, this can be time-consuming for large areas and may not prevent regrowth from seeds left in the soil.
Cultural practices: Maintaining a healthy, dense lawn through proper mowing, fertilization, and irrigation can help prevent spurge infestations. Raising the mowing height can shade out spurge seedlings. While these practices improve overall lawn health, they may not completely eliminate existing spurge.
Spraying with post-emergent herbicides: Selective herbicides can effectively control spurge, especially when applied to young plants. However, this method only treats existing plants and doesn't prevent new growth. Multiple applications may be necessary due to spurge's rapid seed production.
Pre-emergent herbicides: Applying pre-emergent herbicides in early spring can help prevent spurge seeds from germinating. This is one of the most effective methods for long-term control. At Turf Boss, we provide expert pre-emergent care for spurge and many other weeds.

At Turf Boss, we offer comprehensive weed management services that address spurge and other common lawn weeds. Our expert team can develop a customized plan to keep your lawn healthy, lush, and weed-free throughout the year.

Need help with Spurge?

Contact Us Now to Get Service Started...

Core Services

8 Application Fertilization & Weed Control for Zoysia

8 Application Fertilization & Weed Control for Bermuda

8 Application Fertilization & Weed Control for Fescue

*** We only offer fertilization and weed control packages that we know will be successful. In Upstate, South Carolina that is a 8 application a year program for both warm and cool turf grass.

Add On Services

Aerating (Warm Turf)

Aerating & Overseeding (Fescue)

Flower Bed Weed Control

Grub Control

Soil Softening Application

Lime

Army Worms (Pre & Post Treatment)

1 Year Guarantee Fire Ant Control

Shrub Fertilization

Mosquito Control