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Spurge Guide

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Spurge Identification Guide

What is Spurge?

Spurge is a fast-spreading summer annual weed that grows low to the ground and can quickly overtake your lawn if not controlled. Early detection is key to managing this invasive plant. Use this guide to determine if spurge is present in your yard and how to address it effectively.

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Characteristics of Spurge

Spurge weeds share several common traits, making them identifiable across their many species:

  • Leaf Arrangement: Spurge leaves grow along the stem in pairs, directly opposite each other.
  • Taproot and Stems: The plant features a central taproot with stems extending outward. Some stems may develop smaller root systems.
  • Growth Habit: Spurge grows low and spreads outward along the ground.
  • Milky Sap: When the leaves or stems are broken, they release a milky sap that can irritate the skin and eyes upon contact.

Growth Pattern

Spurge thrives in warm weather, typically germinating when soil temperatures reach 60°F. Depending on the climate, spurge can grow from February through September.

Common Types of Spurge

There are many varieties of spurge, but the following are some of the most widespread in the United States:

Spotted Spurge (Prostrate Spurge)

  • Appearance: Spotted spurge is easily recognizable by a maroon “spot” running along the central vein of each leaf.
  • Stems: Purple or pink stems grow outward and may grow upward when competing for sunlight.
  • Toxicity: This variety is harmful to animals if consumed in large amounts.

Creeping Spurge

  • Appearance: Creeping spurge has light green, pale red, or whitish leaves that are slightly hairy and egg-shaped.
  • Flowers: Small white flowers are found along the stems and at stem-leaf junctions.
  • Stems: These can grow up to 20 inches in length and lack the maroon spots found in spotted spurge.

Petty Spurge

  • Preferred Habitat: Petty spurge thrives in moist, shaded areas like garden beds and shrubbery.
  • Appearance: Light green leaves with slender stems distinguish this variety.

Nodding Spurge

  • Appearance: Oblong, green leaves (sometimes with a red center) grow on pink or reddish stems, reaching up to 2 inches in length.
  • Habitat: Prefers dry, poor soil with full sunlight and often grows in gravel, sand, or clay. Entire plants may take on a reddish-green hue.

Dealing with spurge? Discover where and when to spot spurge weeds in the next section of our 4-part Spurge Guide. Click the right arrow below to continue.

Spurge Inspection Guide

When and Where Does Spurge Grow?

Spurge weeds spread rapidly and can be difficult to control once they start growing. Knowing when and where spurge thrives allows you to address the problem before it takes over your lawn.

Read the guide below to learn more. Not sure if you have spurge? Check out our guide on how to identify spurge.

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Where Does Spurge Grow?

Spurge thrives under specific conditions, such as:

Sunny and Warm Weather: While spurge can grow in a variety of climates and soil types, it flourishes in warm, sunny areas.

Thin or Sparse Lawns: Spurge seeks out areas where it won’t have to compete for sunlight, often appearing in thin or patchy lawns.

Dry or Poor Soil: Certain species, like petty spurge and nodding spurge, grow well in dry conditions, often taking root in clay, gravel, or sandy soil.

When Does Spurge Grow?

Image of spurge leaves close up

Spurge is a summer annual, completing its life cycle—sprouting, flowering, and dying—during the warmer months of the year.

  • Timing: Depending on your region and climate, spurge can grow from early spring to late fall, or only during the summer.
  • Soil Temperature: Growth typically begins once soil temperatures reach 60 degrees.

Once spurge starts growing, it spreads rapidly. Prompt treatment is crucial to stop it from taking over your lawn. Explore the next part of our 4-part guide to discover effective methods for eliminating spurge. Click the right arrow below to continue.

Spurge Treatment Guide

How to Effectively Eliminate Spurge

Spurge is a fast-spreading weed with resilient roots and rapid seed production, making it difficult to control. However, with the right strategies and products, you can successfully manage and prevent a spurge infestation in your lawn.

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Step1 Apply a Pre-Emergent Herbicide

Pre-emergent herbicides are designed to stop weeds before they emerge. If you’ve had issues with spurge in the past, applying a pre-emergent herbicide is critical to controlling its growth.

Key Considerations for Pre-Emergent Herbicides:

  • Timing is essential.
  • Follow label instructions. Some herbicides may require a freshly mowed lawn or watering after application for best results.
  • Choose a product labeled for spurge control, such as Dimension 2EW or Prodiamine 65 WDG. Confirm the herbicide is safe for your grass type by checking the label.

Products we recommend for Step 1

Step2 Use a Post-Emergent Herbicide

Post-emergent herbicides are used to kill actively growing weeds. For spurge, select a post-emergent herbicide specifically labeled for its control, such as Ferti-Lome Weed-Out or Dismiss Turf Herbicide.

Best Practices for Post-Emergent Treatment:

  • Treat young spurge weeds for the best results. Mature weeds are harder to kill.
  • Multiple applications may be needed. Follow the herbicide’s label for reapplication intervals and ensure compatibility with your lawn’s grass type.
  • Timing matters. Post-emergent herbicides are most effective during warm, active growing months.

Products we recommend for Step 2

Step3 Hand-Pull Spurge Weeds

If only a few spurge weeds appear in your lawn, you can pull them by hand. This method works best when the infestation is minimal.

Hand-Pulling Tips:

  • Target the taproot. Spurge weeds grow from a central taproot that must be completely removed to prevent regrowth.
  • Wear protective gear. Spurge emits a white sap that can irritate skin and eyes. Use gloves, long sleeves, and protective eyewear.
  • Dispose of the weeds properly. Avoid leaving any plant pieces on the ground. Bag them and dispose of them as directed by your local waste services.
  • Clean your tools. Wash garden tools thoroughly to prevent spreading seeds to other areas of your lawn.

Combine hand-pulling with post-emergent herbicides. After pulling a weed, monitor the area. If new growth appears, treat it immediately with a post-emergent herbicide.

Products we recommend for Step 3

A troublesome spurge issue can be significantly minimized or even avoided with a few straightforward measures. Check out the final part of our 4-part guide on how to prevent spurge. Click the right arrow below to learn more.

Spurge Treatment Infographic

(Click to Enlarge)

Spurge Prevention Guide

How to Stop Spurge from Invading Your Lawn

Spurge is a challenging weed to manage due to its prolific seed production. By implementing preventative measures, you can save yourself time, effort, and resources during the growing season. Read below for tips on how to prevent spurge in your yard.

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Step1 Maintain a Healthy Lawn

The first and most effective way to prevent spurge is to maintain a healthy lawn year-round.

  • Spurge thrives in thin, patchy grass and bare spots. A lush, well-established turf can act as a natural barrier against invasive weeds.
  • A dense lawn blocks sunlight from reaching the soil, preventing spurge seeds from germinating.

To keep your lawn in peak condition, follow our seasonal lawn care calendars for guidance on fertilizing, mowing, watering, and more.

Step2 Apply a Pre-Emergent Herbicide

If spurge has been a problem in your yard before, applying a pre-emergent herbicide is a proactive step to prevent it from taking hold again. A fall application will help reduce spurge growth in the spring.

Key Points to Remember:

  1. Choose the Right Pre-Emergent
  2. Check Compatibility with Your Grass
  3. Follow Label Instructions
  4. Timing is Critical

Products we recommend for Step 2

We hope this 4-part guide has been helpful! If you're uncertain whether you have spurge weeds in your yard, start with our guide on identifying spurge weeds. Learn where spurge commonly grows to pinpoint problem areas in your lawn, and consult our step-by-step guide on how to eliminate spurge for effective treatment solutions.

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