Arizona is home to a wide variety of weeds, many of which can be found throughout the state’s diverse landscapes. These weeds can be found in both urban and rural areas, and can pose a significant threat to the health of native plants and ecosystems. Some of the most common weeds found in Arizona can be difficult to control, as they are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of conditions.
Despite their reputation as unwanted plants, some Arizona weeds have medicinal properties and have been used for centuries by indigenous cultures. Overall, understanding the different types of weeds found in Arizona is important for maintaining healthy ecosystems and preserving the state’s natural beauty.
Table of Contents
Arizona weeds
| Name of weed | Family |
|---|---|
| Bermudagrass | Poaceae |
| Bur Clover | Apiaceae |
| Cheese Weed | Malvaceae |
| Common Dandelion | Asteraceae |
| Common Purslane | Portulacaceae |
| Crabgrass | Portulacaceae |
| Creeping Woodsorrel | Oxalidaceae |
| Desert Senna (Coues'Cassia) | Fabaceae |
| Desert Thorn-Apple | Solanaceae |
| Desert Tobacco | Solanaceae |
| Filaree | Geraniaceae |
| Foxtail | Poaceae |
| Globe Chamomile | Asteraceae |
| Hairy Fleabane | Asteraceae |
| Johnson grass | Poaceae |
| Liverseed Grass | Poaceae |
| London Rocket | Brassicaceae |
| Mallow | Malvaceae |
| Nutgrass / nutsedge | Cyperaceae |
| Pigweed | Amaranthaceae |
| Puncture Vine | Zygophyllacea |
| Russian Thistle | Amaranthaceae |
| Silverleaf Nightshade | Solanaceae |
| Spiderling | Nyctaginaceae |
| Thistle | Asteraceae |
| Spotted Spurge | Euphorbiaceae |
Bermudagrass
Bermudagrass is a hardy weed species that has a coarse texture and propagates through underground stems and rhizomes. Its deep green color and ability to withstand mowing make it a popular choice on thousands of golf courses. However, its spreading habit can make it difficult to control, and it can become invasive if not managed properly.
Despite its attractive appearance and manageable nature, some individuals do not consider Bermuda grass as a weed. However, it is important to note that without proper maintenance, it can quickly become invasive.
While Bermuda grass is a popular choice, there are still people who prefer the look, feel, and color of Fescue grass because it remains green. As such, it is essential to carefully consider the maintenance needs and potential invasiveness of Bermuda grass before deciding to plant it.
Type
Perrenial
Family
Poaceae
Control
To control Bermuda grass, it can be removed manually through hand pulling or mowing. This can be effective for small areas or isolated patches. Pre and post-emergent herbicides, such as Roundup, Weed Beater Ultra, or Ortho Ground Clear, can also be used for controlling Bermuda grass.
These chemicals can be effective for larger areas or more widespread infestations but should be used with caution and according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Bur Clover
Clover is a weed that typically appears in late spring, characterized by its low-growing habit, white flowers, and creeping stems. Its leaves are small and round, and when crushed, they emit a clove-like odor.
While clover may have some benefits, such as being drought-tolerant, it can also ruin the uniformity of a lawn. It has a tendency to take over stressed lawns, particularly those with acidic soils, compacted soils, and low nitrogen levels.
Additionally, clover is known for its rapid germination capabilities, making it a prolific weed that can quickly spread throughout a lawn or garden. As such, it is important to take steps to control and prevent the growth of clover to maintain a healthy and attractive lawn or garden.
Type
Perennial Broadleaf
Family
Apiaceae
Control
Proper lawn maintenance can help prevent clover from taking root and spreading. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide in the fall can also help control clover invasion. For established clover weeds, a post-emergent herbicide application is recommended. By taking these steps, it is possible to effectively control and prevent the growth of clover in a lawn or garden.
Cheese Weed
Cheese weed, also known as Malva parviflora, is a common weed found throughout Arizona and other regions of the southwestern United States. This weed species is known for its distinctive, round leaves that resemble small wheels of cheese, hence its name.
Cheese weed is an annual plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and produces small, pink or purple flowers in the summer months.
Cheese weed is a fast-growing weed that can quickly take over gardens, lawns, and other areas. It is highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of soil types and conditions, making it difficult to eradicate. Cheese weed is also known for its ability to produce large amounts of seeds, which can quickly spread and germinate in new areas.
Type
Perennial herb
Family
Malvaceae
Control
To control cheese weed, it is important to take proactive measures such as maintaining a healthy lawn or garden and using appropriate herbicides when necessary.
Hand-pulling can also be effective for small infestations, but care must be taken to remove the entire plant to prevent regrowth. Additionally, preventing the spread of cheese weed seeds is important to prevent the weed from spreading to new areas.
Common Dandelion
Dandelions are a common and opportunistic broadleaf weed that can quickly overtake grass and other native plants. They are easily recognizable by their leafless stems, bright yellow flowers, and puffball seed bearers. Dandelions have deep root systems that can cause damage to the soil and surrounding non native plants too.
Controlling dandelions and lawn weeds can be challenging due to their widespread seeds, which can sprout hundreds of new plants. These weeds thrive in acidic soils, making them particularly difficult to eradicate.
As such, it is important to take proactive measures to prevent the growth and spread of dandelions, such as maintaining a healthy lawn or garden and using appropriate herbicides when necessary.
Type
Perennial broadleaf
Family
Asteraceae
Control
Hand-pulling is an effective method for removing dandelions, but it is crucial to ensure that the entire plant is removed. Since dandelions have a rapid germination rate, pre-emergent herbicides may not be effective in preventing their growth. Instead, post-emergent herbicides are recommended to reduce their spread.
However, it is important to apply these chemicals properly and according to the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damage to surrounding plants and the environment. By using a combination of hand-pulling and appropriate herbicides, it is possible to effectively control and prevent the growth of dandelions in a lawn or garden.
Common Purslane
Purslane is a weed that resembles a succulent and forms a mat-like growth on the ground. It is characterized by its thick, waxy, reddish-purple stems and shiny, paddle-shaped green leaves. The plant produces star-shaped, bright yellow flowers that only open for a few hours in the morning sun.
Purslane is a hardy weed species that can survive in extreme heat and dry climates. It is known for its ability to quickly cover the ground and crowd out native plants in the region. As such, it can be a nuisance for gardeners and homeowners who want to maintain a healthy and diverse ecosystem.
Type
Annual
Family
Portulacaceae
Control
To prevent the growth and spread of purslane, it is important to take proactive measures such as maintaining a healthy lawn or garden and using appropriate herbicides when necessary.
Additionally, hand-pulling can be effective for small infestations, but care must be taken to remove the entire plant to prevent regrowth. By taking these steps, it is possible to effectively control and prevent the growth of purslane in a lawn or garden.
Crabgrass
Crabgrass is a weed that resembles grass and forms a dense mat on the ground. Its stems branch out, creating a star-shaped pattern, and it can be identified by its flat, light green leaves and long finger-like florets. Crabgrass thrives in dry and hot conditions, making it most active during the summer months.
This weed species can quickly take over a lawn or garden, crowding out other plants and reducing the overall health and attractiveness of the area.
Type
Annual
Family
Portulacaceae
Control
Crabgrass is a weed that can easily take over any bare areas on your lawn or yard. To prevent this weed from establishing itself, applying a pre-emergent herbicide in the spring can be an effective method. Additionally, regular lawn mowing is crucial to keep crabgrass in check.
Creeping Woodsorrel
Creeping woodsorrel, also known as Oxalis corniculata, is a common weed that is found in many parts of the world, including the United States. It is a low-growing plant that spreads by creeping stems and can quickly take over gardens and lawns.
Creeping woodsorrel is characterized by its heart-shaped leaves that are divided into three leaflets, and its small, yellow flowers that bloom in the summer months.
This weed species is known for its ability to adapt to a variety of soil types and conditions, making it difficult to eradicate. It is also known for its deep roots, which can be challenging to remove.
Additionally, creeping woodsorrel is capable of producing large amounts of seeds, which can quickly spread and germinate in new areas.
Type
Perennial Broadleaf
Family
Oxalidaceae
Control
To control creeping woodsorrel, it is important to take proactive measures such as maintaining a healthy lawn or garden and using appropriate herbicides when necessary. Hand-pulling can also be effective for small infestations, but care must be taken to remove the entire plant to prevent regrowth. Additionally, preventing the spread of creeping woodsorrel seeds is important to prevent the weed from spreading to new areas.
Desert Senna (Coues'Cassia)
Desert senna, also known as Senna armata, is a weed species that is commonly found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is a shrub-like plant that can grow up to 6 feet tall and is characterized by its gray-green leaves and bright yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months.
Desert senna is known for its ability to adapt to a variety of soil types and conditions, making it a hardy weed that can be difficult to eradicate. It is also capable of producing large amounts of seeds, which can quickly spread and germinate in new areas.
Type
Perennial
Family
Fabaceae
Control
Desert senna, also known as Senna armata, is a weed species that is commonly found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is a shrub-like plant that can grow up to 6 feet tall and is characterized by its gray-green leaves and bright yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months.
Desert Thorn-Apple
Desert thorn-apple, also known as Datura discolor, is a weed species that is commonly found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is a herbaceous plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and is characterized by its large, trumpet-shaped flowers and spiny seed pods.
Desert thorn-apple belongs to the Solanaceae family, which includes many species of important food crops such as tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers. This family is also known for its toxic plants, such as deadly nightshade and tobacco.
Type
Annual
Family
Solanaceae
Control
Controlling desert thorn-apple can be challenging due to its ability to produce large amounts of seeds that can quickly spread and germinate in new areas.
To prevent the growth and spread of desert thorn-apple, it is important to take proactive measures such as maintaining a healthy lawn or garden and using appropriate herbicides when necessary. Hand-pulling can also be effective for small infestations, but care must be taken to remove the entire plant to prevent regrowth.
Desert Tobacco
Desert tobacco, also known as Nicotiana obtusifolia, is a weed species that is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is a herbaceous plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and is characterized by its large, tubular white or greenish-yellow flowers and sticky leaves.
Desert tobacco is an annual weed species, which means that it completes its life cycle in one growing season. This weed species belongs to the Solanaceae family, which includes many species of important food crops such as tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers. This family is also known for its toxic plants, such as deadly nightshade and desert thorn-apple.
Type
Annual
Family
Solanaceae
Control
Controlling desert tobacco can be challenging due to its ability to produce large amounts of seeds that can quickly spread and germinate in new areas.
To prevent the growth and spread of desert tobacco, it is important to take proactive measures such as maintaining a healthy lawn or garden and using appropriate herbicides when necessary.
Hand-pulling can also be effective for small infestations, but care must be taken to remove the entire plant to prevent regrowth.
Filaree
Filaree, also known as stork’s bill, is a weed species that is native to Europe but has become widespread in many parts of the world, including North America. It is an annual or biennial plant that can grow up to 2 feet tall and is characterized by its small, pink or purple flowers and deeply lobed leaves.
Filaree is a biennial or annual weed species, which means that it can complete its life cycle in one or two growing seasons. This weed belongs to the Geraniaceae family, which includes many ornamental plants such as geraniums and pelargoniums.
However, Filaree is considered a weed due to its invasive nature and ability to outcompete other plants.
Type
Annual or biennial
Family
Geraniaceae
Control
To prevent the growth and spread of Filaree, it is important to take proactive measures such as maintaining a healthy lawn or garden and using appropriate herbicides when necessary. Herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective in controlling Filaree, but care must be taken to avoid damaging surrounding plants.
Regular mowing can also help to prevent the growth and spread of Filaree by preventing it from flowering and producing seeds. Additionally, hand-pulling can be effective for small infestations, but care must be taken to remove the entire plant, including the roots, to prevent regrowth.
Foxtail
Foxtail is a weed that resembles grass with its broad and bright green leaf blades and long flower spikes ranging from 3 to 10 inches in length. This weed can cause discomfort to people and pets due to its sharp seed heads that can become lodged in the skin or ears, leading to irritation and infection.
Moreover, foxtail poses a significant threat as its rapid growth and high seed production enable it to invade gardens and lawns that are not properly maintained, crowding out other plants and reducing the overall health and attractiveness of the landscape.
To prevent the growth and spread of foxtail, it is crucial to take proactive measures such as maintaining a healthy lawn or garden, using appropriate herbicides when necessary, and hand-pulling for small infestations.
Type
Annual Grass
Family
Poaceae
Control
To prevent foxtail infestations, it is important to maintain a thick and healthy lawn. Applying pre-emergent herbicides can also prevent foxtail from taking root. However, post-emergent herbicides may harm other, native species of plants in your lawn or garden. Seeking professional help can ensure the successful application of post-emergent herbicides without damaging other plants.
Globe Chamomile
Globe chamomile, also known as Mayweed, is a weed species that is native to Europe but has become widespread in many parts of the world, including North America.
It is an annual plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and is characterized by its small, daisy-like flowers and finely divided leaves.
Globe chamomile is an annual weed species, which means that it completes its life cycle in one growing season.
This weed belongs to the Asteraceae family, which includes many species of important food crops in agriculture such as lettuce, sunflowers, and artichokes. However, Globe chamomile is considered a weed due to its invasive nature and ability to outcompete other plants.
Type
Annual
Family
Asteraceae
Control
Controlling Globe chamomile can be challenging due to its ability to produce large amounts of seeds that can quickly spread and germinate in new areas.
To prevent the growth and spread of Globe chamomile, it is important to take proactive measures such as maintaining a healthy lawn or garden and using appropriate herbicides when necessary.
Herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective in controlling Globe chamomile, but care must be taken to avoid damaging surrounding plants.
Hairy Fleabane
Hairy fleabane, also known as Conyza bonariensis, is a weed species that is native to South America but has become widespread in many parts of the world, including North America and Europe. It is an annual or biennial plant that can grow up to 5 feet tall and is characterized by its small, white or pink flowers and hairy leaves.
Hairy fleabane is an annual or biennial weed species, which means that it can complete its life cycle in one or two growing seasons.
This weed belongs to the Asteraceae family, which includes many important food crops such as lettuce, sunflowers, and artichokes. However, Hairy fleabane is considered a weed due to its invasive nature and ability to outcompete other plants.
Type
Annual or biennia
Family
Asteraceae
Control
Controlling Hairy fleabane can be challenging due to its ability to produce large amounts of seeds that can quickly spread and germinate in new areas. To prevent the growth and spread of Hairy fleabane, it is important to take proactive measures such as maintaining a healthy lawn or garden and using appropriate herbicides when necessary.
Herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective in controlling Hairy fleabane, but care must be taken to avoid damaging surrounding plants.
Johnson grass
Johnson grass is a weed species that is native to the Mediterranean region but has become widespread in many parts of the world, including the United States. It is a tall, perennial grass that can grow up to 8 feet tall and is characterized by its long, pointed leaves and large seed heads.
Johnson grass is a perennial weed species, which means that it can survive for multiple growing seasons. This weed belongs to the Poaceae family, which includes many important food crops such as wheat, rice, and corn. However, Johnson grass is considered a weed due to its invasive nature and ability to outcompete other plants.
Type
Perennial
Family
Poaceae
Control
Controlling Johnson grass can be challenging due to its deep root system, which can make it difficult to remove by hand. To prevent the growth and spread of Johnson grass, it is important to take proactive measures such as maintaining a healthy lawn or garden and using appropriate herbicides when necessary.
Herbicides containing glyphosate or imazapyr can be effective in controlling Johnson grass, but care must be taken to avoid damaging surrounding plants.
Liverseed Grass
Liverseed grass, also known as Urochloa panicoides, is a weed species that is native to Africa but has become widespread in many parts of the world, including Australia and the United States.
It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and is characterized by its long, narrow leaves and spike-like seed heads.
Liverseed grass is a perennial weed species, which means that it can survive for multiple growing seasons.
This weed belongs to the Poaceae family, which includes many important food crops such as wheat, rice, and corn. However, Liverseed grass is considered a weed due to its invasive nature and ability to outcompete other plants.
Type
Perennial
Family
Poaceae
Control
To prevent the growth and spread of Liverseed grass, it is important to take proactive measures such as maintaining a healthy lawn or garden and using appropriate herbicides when necessary. Herbicides containing glyphosate or imazapyr can be effective in controlling Liverseed grass, but care must be taken to avoid damaging surrounding plants.
London Rocket
London rocket, also known as Sisymbrium irio, is a weed species that is native to Europe but has become widespread in many parts of the world, including North America. It is an annual plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and is characterized by its small, yellow flowers and deeply lobed leaves.
London rocket is an annual weed species, which means that it completes its life cycle in one growing season. This weed belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which includes many important food crops such as broccoli, cauliflower, and kale.
However, London rocket is considered a weed due to its invasive nature and ability to outcompete other plants.
Type
Annual
Family
Brassicaceae
Control
Controlling London rocket can be challenging due to its ability to produce large amounts of seeds that can quickly spread and germinate in new areas. To prevent the growth and spread of London rocket, it is important to take proactive measures such as maintaining a healthy lawn or garden and using appropriate herbicides when necessary.
Herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective in controlling London rocket, but care must be taken to avoid damaging surrounding plants.
Mallow
Mallow, also known as Malva neglecta, is a weed species that is native to Europe but has become widespread in many parts of the world, including North America. It is an annual or biennial plant that can grow up to 2 feet tall and is characterized by its small, pink or purple flowers and round, lobed leaves.
Mallow is an annual or biennial weed species, which means that it can complete its life cycle in one or two growing seasons.
This weed belongs to the Malvaceae family, which includes many ornamental plants such as hibiscus and cotton. However, Mallow is considered a weed due to its invasive nature and ability to outcompete other plants.
Type
Annual or biennial
Family
Malvaceae
Control
Controlling Mallow can be challenging due to its ability to produce large amounts of seeds that can quickly spread and germinate in new areas. To prevent the growth and spread of Mallow, it is important to take proactive measures such as maintaining a healthy lawn or garden and using appropriate herbicides when necessary.
Herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective in controlling Mallow, but care must be taken to avoid damaging surrounding plants.
Nutgrass/nutsedge
Nutsedge, also known as Nutgrass, is a perennial weed characterized by its bright green leaves with sharp edges. It grows in clumps with yellow flowers that emerge from spikes or “nuts” located at the top of the plant.
Nutsedge thrives in moist soil and can spread quickly throughout lawns. Initially, nutsedge can go unnoticed because its seeds resemble out-of-season Bermuda grass and thatch.
Type
Perennial Grass
Family
Cyperaceae
Control
Regular maintenance is key when controlling Nutsedge. To achieve a healthy lawn, it is important to have proper mowing and watering schedules. Additionally, post-emergent herbicides can help target established weeds like Nutsedge. Be sure to apply the herbicide during the early stages of growth and follow up with another application as needed.
Pigweed
Pigweed, also known as red root, is an annual weed that grows low to medium in height. It has reddish-green leaves that are frequently confused with spinach and can be found in gardens and waste areas worldwide. The plant produces slender flower spikes approximately 2 cm in length with five small petals. The weed is distinguishable by its strong odor when crushed.
Type
Annual Broadleaf
Family
Amaranthaceae
Control
The most effective way to manage pigweed is through the use of chemical herbicides that contain dicamba or glyphosate (Roundup). Hand weeding is also a viable option if done correctly, ensuring that all parts of the plant, including the roots, are removed. Consistent mowing can also prevent pigweed from spreading by preventing it from flowering and producing seeds.
Puncture Vine
Puncture vine, also known as Tribulus terrestris, is a weed species that is native to Europe but has become widespread in many parts of the world, including North America. It is an annual plant that can grow up to 2 feet tall and is characterized by its small, yellow flowers and spiny seed pods.
Puncture vine is an annual weed species, which means that it completes its life cycle in one growing season. This weed belongs to the Zygophyllaceae family, which includes many important medicinal plants such as jojoba and creosote bush.
However, Puncture vine is considered a weed due to its invasive nature and ability to damage tires and injure animals due to its spiny seed pods.
Type
Annual
Family
Zygophyllaceae
Control
Controlling Puncture vine can be challenging due to its ability to produce large amounts of seeds that can quickly spread and germinate in new areas.
To prevent the growth and spread of Puncture vine, it is important to take proactive measures such as maintaining a healthy lawn or garden and using appropriate herbicides when necessary. Herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective in controlling Puncture vine, but care must be taken to avoid damaging surrounding plants.
Russian Thistle
Russian thistle, also known as Salsola tragus, is a weed species that is native to Eurasia but has become widespread in many parts of North America. It is an annual plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and is characterized by its spiny leaves and stems.
Russian thistle is an annual weed species, which means that it completes its life cycle in one growing season. This weed belongs to the Amaranthaceae family, which includes many important food crops such as spinach and quinoa. However, Russian thistle is considered a weed due to its invasive nature and ability to outcompete other plants.
Type
Annual
Family
Amaranthaceae
Control
To prevent the growth and spread of Russian thistle, it is important to take proactive measures such as maintaining a healthy lawn or garden and using appropriate herbicides when necessary. Herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective in controlling Russian thistle, but care must be taken to avoid damaging surrounding plants.
Silverleaf Nightshade
Silverleaf is native to North America but has become widespread in many parts of the world, including South America and Australia. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and is characterized by its small, purple flowers and silver-colored leaves.
Silverleaf nightshade is a perennial weed species, which means that it can survive for multiple growing seasons.
This weed belongs to the Solanaceae family, which includes many important food crops such as tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes. However, Silverleaf nightshade is considered a weed due to its invasive nature and ability to outcompete other plants.
Type
Perennial
Family
Solanaceae
Control
Controlling Silverleaf nightshade can be challenging due to its deep root system, which can make it difficult to remove by hand. To prevent the growth and spread of Silverleaf nightshade, it is important to take proactive measures such as maintaining a healthy lawn or garden and using appropriate herbicides when necessary.
Herbicides containing glyphosate or picloram can be effective in controlling Silverleaf nightshade, but care must be taken to avoid damaging surrounding plants.
Spiderling
Spiderling, also known as Boerhavia diffusa, is a weed species that is native to India but has become widespread in many parts of the world, including North America. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 2 feet tall and is characterized by its small, pink or white flowers and slender stems.
Spiderling is a perennial weed species, which means that it can survive for multiple growing seasons. This weed belongs to the Nyctaginaceae family, which includes many ornamental plants such as bougainvillea and four o’clocks. However, Spiderling is considered a weed due to its invasive nature and ability to outcompete other plants.
Type
Perennial
Family
Nyctaginaceae
Control
To prevent the growth and spread of Spiderling, it is important to take proactive measures such as maintaining a healthy lawn or garden and using appropriate herbicides when necessary. Herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective in controlling Spiderling, but care must be taken to avoid damaging surrounding plants.
Thistle
Thistle is a broadleaf weed that can grow up to 6 feet tall. Its flowers are large and range in color from rose to purple. The leaves are irregularly lobed and have yellow prickles at the tips, with wing-like structures visible on the leaves. Thistles are commonly recognized as prickly plants due to the small, sharp prickles that grow on the leaves and stems of the plant.
Type
Annual, Biennial, or Perennial
Family
Asteraceae
Control
When it comes to thistle control, herbicides are an affordable and flexible option. However, timing is a critical factor for many herbicides. Applying certain commonly used herbicides earlier in the growing season can effectively control thistles.
Spurge
Spurge is a warm-season weed that is commonly found in container nurseries. It produces greenish-white flowers, and when its leaves or stems are broken, a milky sap is released.
There are several types of spurge, including ground spurge and spotted spurge, which have almost identical prostrate to ascending stems and carry oblong or round leaves. This weed species is prevalent in grasslands, pastures, roadsides, and prairies, and can survive in a wide range of soil types.
Type
Perennial
Family
Euphorbiaceae
Control
Hand-pulling can be an effective method for removing small patches of spurge. However, prevention is the key to dealing with this weed species, as controlling it can be challenging once the invasive plants have taken root. Post-emergent herbicides are available and can be used to control spurge invasions in gardens or lawns.
