In addition to being an unsightly turf problem, spotted spurge can do a number on your citrus trees. It isn't controlled by many of the herbicides used around citrus trees, and can create hiding spots for harmful insects that could destroy your crop. You'll also find spotted spurge in weak turf areas, landscaping beds, or sidewalk cracks all throughout the United States.
Spotted spurge spreads quickly throughout weak areas in your lawn by producing several thousand seeds per plant. Even though it is a summer annual, late-season seeds can sprout next spring after lying dormant during cold temperatures. This warm- weather pest begins seed production a mere 5 weeks after germination, so early detection and treatment is key.
An easy way to prevent an infestation is to weed your garden before spotted spurge begins to produce seed. Make sure your lawnmower and garden tools are clean. Keep a dense, green turf to ensure that this non-competitive plant won't have room to grow. When these weeds do pop up, pull them out before they have time to produce seed.
If you've got a large spotted spurge problem, apply a Roundup® Brand Weed & Grass Killer to any weeds you find. Don't spray this product on your other garden items, as it will damage your non-target plants. You can protect garden plants by shielding them with cardboard when you apply the product. In turf, you will be able to reseed 5-7 days after application.
In addition to its signature red spots, spotted spurge can be distinguished by the milky sap that is emitted when any plant part is split open. Once established, each bright green plant forms a thick mat that can be up to 3 feet in diameter. Its hairy, reddish stems branch out from a central point and carry many tiny, oval leaves. After germinating in mid-spring, the plant's inconspicuous, green flowers bloom from June until September.
