Spotted Spurge (Euphorbia Maculata)
Spotted Spurge is a warm season annual that is found in compacted or disturbed soils such as gardens, flower beds, along sidewalks and open turf areas. Small green oblong leaves often have a maroon or purple spot in the center. Red or purple tinged stems emit a milky sap when broken. The spurge plant grows outward from the center, low to the ground, in a mat-like fashion.
Interesting Facts About Spotted Spurge:
- No animals will eat spurge.
- The sap from the plant is poisonous and considered carcinogenic.
- Contact with the sap can cause skin and eye irritation.
Using pre-emergent weed control in the spring will assist in prevention of germination. If the plant has already germinated applying a post-emergent herbicide will aid in eliminating the exisiting plant. Mulching beds, adequate soil moisture, and proper fertilizing will help control this broadleaf weed. Granular fertilizers and liquid weed control applications will also help turfgrass dominate the lawn and prevent undesirable weeds.
Get A Quote On Lawn Care Today
Spring Touch offers our customers a customized lawn care program. The program can use professional control methods, organic products, or a hybrid professional/organic approach. Note that the organic lawn care program does not provide weed control. The recommended treatment for spotted spurge is a broad spectrum postemergent herbicide. Expect results to take at least 3-4 treatments per year to achieve spurge control on your lawn. Spring Touch recommends our 6 step lawn care program to remove spurge and thicken up the existing turfgrass of your lawn. For more information call 248-826-5296 or email to get a quote on your lawn care program today.
