The spurges are prostrate summer annual weeds that can be found
in thinning, less vigorous turfgrass. Their leaves are opposite
of each other. Prostrate Spurge Prostrate Spurge blooms Spotted
spurge has a reddish-purple spot in the center of each leaf. The
sap from both plants is a milky latex. Some people develop a
rash after coming into contact with the sap. Plants can be
easily pulled and bagged if soil is moist. Be sure to wear
gloves to prevent skin-contact with the sap. Pre-emergent
herbicides (DCPA, dithiopyr, isoxaben, pendimethalin) applied
correctly in spring will reduce or eliminate spurge. Post-
emergent herbicides are not very effective unless plants are
young. 2,4-D combination herbicides are more effective than
2,4-D alone.Increasing the density of your turfgrass with proper
lawn watering, fertilization, and mowing (no shorter than 2.5
inches) and other cultural practices will help in the control of
spurge. See CSU Fact Sheet 7.202. Photographs courtesy of Judy
Sedbrook. © CSU/Denver County Exte