Weed Identification 101: Prostrate Spurge

How many of you have this little fellow invading your yards?  Prostrate spurge enjoys taking over a landscape very fast.  This can be tough to get rid of and keep controlled. We can help you keep these little bundles of joy from having a party in your yards. We have many services to fit your needs.

Excerpts from:  Spotted Spurge and other Spurges

IDENTIFICATION

Spotted spurge grows close to the ground, often forming a dense mat. Its dark green leaves, which grow in pairs called “opposites,” are 1/8 to 1/2 inch long and about 1/8 inch wide.  Frequently a red spot will mark the leaf halfway down its center vein.

IMPACT

Spotted spurge can establish itself in horticultural, agricultural, and non-crop sites. It overgrows sparse turf areas and low-growing ground covers, invades open areas in gardens and landscapes, and can grow in sidewalk cracks. In addition to reducing the growth of desirable plants, spotted spurge reduces uniformity and quality of turf, provides a habitat for undesirable insects in citrus groves, serves as an intermediate host for fungal diseases of cultivated crops, and attracts ants with its seed.

CHEMICAL CONTROL

Pre-emergent herbicides can help prevent spotted spurge outbreaks if you apply them in late winter before weed seeds germinate. Time the application, so it occurs before the soil temperature exceeds 55° to 60°F at a depth of 1 inch.