Problem: Spotted Spurge (Lawns)
Problem Info
A low-growing weed with oval green leaves 1/4 to 3/4 inch long appears in the lawn. Each leaf may have a purple spot. The leaves are slightly hairy on the underside and smooth on top. Tiny pinkish-white flowers bloom in mid-summer. The stems fan out on the soil surface and over the top of the grass, forming mats up to 2 feet in diameter. Also called milk purslane or prostrate spurge, spotted spurge invades thin areas of the lawn, smothering the grass. It commonly invades lawns that are dry and infertile, but it can also be found in well-maintained lawns.
Analysis
Euphorbia maculata Spotted spurge, also called milk purslane or prostrate spurge, invades thin areas of the lawn, smothering the grass. Spurge sprouts from seeds in the spring and dies with the first frost. This weed commonly invades lawns that are dry and infertile, but it can also be found in well-maintained lawns.
Solution Advice
Keep the lawn well watered to discourage spurge from invading dry areas.
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