Spotted Spurge

This summer annual has a flat or prostrate growth habit, reddish stems, and small green leaves with a red blotch in the center of each leaf. Spotted or prostrate spurge (Chamaesyce maculata) germinates readily in open disturbed areas.

Control: Handpulling can be done if the soil is moist; otherwise, the plant breaks easily and regrows from the remaining parts. Maintain a dense, healthy turf to minimize bare spots. Mulch ornamental bed areas with a two- to three-inch layer of mulch to suppress weed seed germination and growth. Preemergent and postemergent herbicides are available depending on the crop grown.