Managing Spurge in the Landscape, Garden and Turf

Weedy spurges of the genus Chamaesyce are difficult to control due to their rapid life cycle and small seed size. Four species are common in managed Arizona landscapes and garden and include Chamaesyce albomarginata, a perennial species; C. prostrate, C. maculata and C. hyssopifolia which are annual species. Irrigation management, the use of coarse organic mulches and maintaining vigorously growing turf are cultural methods of managing spurges. Hand weeding and soil solarization are mechanical measures that can reduce spurge pressure. Judicious use of chemical herbicides are also useful tools in an integrated spurge management plan.