Leafy Spurge is an herbaceous plant that invades prairies and open grass lands, and quickly produces monocultures. It spreads both by seed as well as rhizomes. It can be toxic to grazing animals, and can cause skin irritation in humans. It can grow to three feet tall and has smooth singular, leaves and has green-yellow flowers that bloom beginning in May. Leafy Spurge is on the Control List for Noxious Weeds.
Control:
Mowing is not affective in control of leafy spurge. Prevention is the best option, as well as identifying small populations early for pulling or treating. Repeated tilling followed up with revegetation can be effective. Leafy Spurge can also be treated with an herbicide, or organic herbicide. Always follow manufacture’s directions when using herbicide, and apply in favorable conditions. Never use herbicides in windy conditions or right before a precipitation event.