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 Photograph from Weeds of Southern Turgrasses, Cooperative Extension Service, University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Athens. |
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Spotted spurge is a summer annual. While similar to prostate spurge, there are several subtle differences in the two varieties. Spotted spurge has a more erect growth habit than prostrate spurge. They have similar leaves, which are small and oblong shaped with an irregular red to purple spot, but the leaf of spotted spurge is slightly larger than that of prostrate spurge. Both spurges will have leaves that grow opposite on the stem, but spotted spurge has fewer leaves per stem. |
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The flower of spotted spurge is small and green in color. It germinates in mid spring and flowers from June to September. Both spotted and prostrate spurge reproduce from seed, although prostrate spurge also roots at the nodes. Both spurges are found throughout the United States. |
| Integrated Pest Management Control Recommendations: |
Cultural Practices:
Spurge can tolerate compact soil conditions and is often found invading
high traffic or otherwise stressed turf areas. It is generally not found
in dense, healthy stands of turfgrass, so good maintenance practices constitute
good prevention of spurge infestation. Where high traffic is the problem,
core aerate and attempt to divert traffic where possible. Physical removal
of single plants can be easily accomplished. Follow good turf management
practices including disease and insect control and proper fertilization.
Herbicide Use:
A preemergent herbicide may prevent some spurge germination. Use a postemergent
broadleaf herbicide as needed to eradicate spurge infestation. For optimum
control, make your herbicide application to spurge that is actively growing
and in the four-leaf to flower stage of growth.
University Links | Gordon's Recommendations | Germination Dates
