Spurge: Identification and Treatment in Georgia
Spurge forms flat mats in hot, dry conditions and bleeds milky white sap. Learn how to prevent and eliminate this common summer weed.
Weed profile
What Is Spurge?
Spurge is a low-growing summer annual that forms flat mats across the lawn. It bleeds milky white sap when stems are broken and thrives in hot, dry conditions — especially in thin turf and along edges.
Identification
How to Identify Spurge
Flat, mat-forming growth hugging the ground
Small, oval leaves often with a dark reddish spot in the center
Milky white sap when stems are broken
Central taproot with radiating stems
Thrives in hot, dry, thin areas of the lawn and along hardscape edges
Treatment
How to Get Rid of Spurge
Prevention
Pre-emergent herbicide in spring prevents germination
Maintain thick turf — spurge exploits bare and thin areas
Proper irrigation prevents the dry, stressed conditions spurge prefers
Avoid scalping the lawn — too-short mowing creates openings
Professional Treatment
Pre-emergent in spring is the primary defense. Post-emergent broadleaf herbicide kills existing plants. Spurge is an annual — preventing seed production for one season significantly reduces the problem.
DIY vs pro
Why Professional Treatment Works Better
Hand-pulling spurge is easy but tedious — each plant must be removed before it sets seed. A single plant produces thousands of seeds. Professional pre-emergent prevents germination lawn-wide.
Affected grasses
Grass Types Spurge Invades
Why Attaboy
Professional Spurge Treatment from Attaboy
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Spurge
What is the flat weed with milky sap in my lawn?
That’s spurge. When you break the stem and see white, milky sap, it’s a positive identification. Spurge forms flat mats in hot, dry conditions.
Why does spurge grow along my driveway?
The edge between lawn and hardscape is often thin, dry, and hot — exactly the conditions spurge prefers. Maintaining thick turf up to edges helps prevent it.
Is the milky sap from spurge harmful?
The sap can irritate skin and eyes. Avoid direct contact and wash hands after pulling spurge. It’s not dangerous but can cause a mild rash.
Related weeds
Other Weeds Active in the Same Season
Take action
Stop Spurge Before It Takes Over
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