Spurge is one of the most common and persistent weeds I encounter on residential and commercial properties in mid to late summer. Whether it’s creeping along curb lines, overtaking thin areas of turf, or popping up in driveway cracks, this weed thrives wherever competition is low and soil temperatures are high.
Getting rid of spurge requires a combination of prevention, proper lawn care practices, and targeted herbicide use. Here’s how I help Lawn Phix customers tackle spurge and keep their lawns healthy, lush, and weed-free.
What is Spurge?
Spotted spurge (Euphorbia maculata), often called prostrate spurge, is a fast-growing annual weed that spreads low to the ground in a mat-like pattern. Its small, oval leaves often feature a reddish or purplish spot at the center, and its stems release a milky sap when broken.
This weed thrives in high-heat, low-moisture conditions, which is why it’s most noticeable in the summer. Spurge quickly invades thin, stressed lawns or areas with poor drainage, spreading aggressively and producing seeds that germinate rapidly.
How to Identify Spurge
Spurge can be tricky to spot early on, but here are a few key features to look for:
- Growth Habit: Spreads horizontally in dense mats close to the ground.
- Leaves: Small, oval leaves, often with a reddish spot in the center.
- Sap: Milky white sap exudes from broken stems—handle with gloves, as it can irritate skin.
- Seed Production: Produces an abundance of seeds that germinate quickly, even in poor soil.
I always check curblines, bare patches, and compacted soil when scouting for spurge on Lawn Phix properties.
How to Prevent Spurge in Your Lawn
Preventing spurge starts with maintaining a healthy lawn. Here’s what I recommend for my Lawn Phix customers:
1. Mow High
Mowing your grass at 3.5-4 inches shades the soil and helps keep temperatures cooler, making it harder for spurge seeds to germinate. Taller grass also encourages thicker turf, which naturally crowds out weeds.
2. Water Deeply but Infrequently
Frequent, shallow watering creates perfect conditions for shallow-rooted weeds like spurge. Instead, water deeply (1-1.5 inches per week) to encourage strong grass roots. Deep watering keeps your turf healthy and less prone to weed invasion.
3. Aerate and Overseed
Thin, compacted lawns are an open invitation for spurge. Annual aeration and overseeding in the fall help improve turf density and reduce bare spots where weeds thrive.
4. Mulch Garden Beds
For non-lawn areas, mulching is a simple and effective way to block sunlight from reaching spurge seeds, preventing germination altogether.
5. Consider Pre-Emergents Strategically
While I don’t rely on pre-emergents for spurge control in lawns, they can be useful in flower beds and other non-seeded areas. Apply a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring before soil temperatures reach 55°F to prevent spurge seeds from sprouting.
How to Kill Spurge in Your Lawn
If spurge has already taken hold, the key is targeted treatment. Here’s what works best for me and my customers:
Post-Emergent Herbicides
Post-emergent herbicides are the most effective solution for active spurge infestations. I recommend products containing Triclopyr, such as T-Zone, or multi-purpose herbicides like Speedzone Southern and Surge Broadleaf Herbicide. When applied correctly, these are safe for cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and fescue.
- Application Tips: Apply on a warm, sunny day when spurge is actively growing. Follow the label for mixing rates and application frequency. Avoid mowing for 48 hours before and after treatment to ensure maximum absorption.
Hand-Pulling
For small infestations, hand-pulling is an option. Wear gloves to avoid skin irritation and remove the entire root system to prevent regrowth.
Boiling Water for Non-Lawn Areas
B boiling water is an eco-friendly solution for spurge growing in driveway cracks or garden edges. Use caution to avoid harming nearby plants.
FAQs About Spurge Control
How long does it take to kill spurge?
Post-emergent herbicides typically work within 7-14 days, depending on the product and environmental conditions. Persistent infestations may require follow-up treatments.
Does mowing remove spurge?
No, mowing alone won’t remove spurge. This weed grows too low to the ground, and cutting won’t affect its root system or prevent seed production.
Can I overseed after applying a pre-emergent?
No, pre-emergents inhibit seed germination. If you plan to be overseed, wait at least 8-10 weeks after applying a pre-emergent herbicide.
What’s the best way to prevent spurge long-term?
The best prevention is a healthy, dense lawn. Aerate and overseed annually, mow high, and water deeply to keep your turf competitive against weeds.
Are there organic options for spurge control?
Yes, hand-pulling and boiling water are organic methods for small infestations. However, larger infestations may require chemical treatments for effective control.
Spurge may be a stubborn weed, but with the right combination of prevention, cultural practices, and targeted treatment, you can keep it under control. At Lawn Phix, I’ve seen firsthand how a healthy lawn is the ultimate defense against spurge and other invasive weeds. With proper care and attention, you can reclaim your lawn and enjoy a lush, green turf all season long.
Video source: https://www.solutionsstores.com/spurge-control