Envu Solutions – Leafy spurge

Leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula) is a troublesome perennial weed that spreads rapidly once established, forming large, dense monocultures, which are difficult to control.

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Native to Central and Southern Europe, this plant has invaded large areas of rangeland, farmland and roadsides in the Prairie provinces and has been a problem in pastures, roadsides, uncultivated crops and reduced tillage crops in eastern provinces for decades. Although found on heavier soils, leafy spurge thrives in coarse soils as well.

Envu Solutions – Leafy spurge

A multiple‑year control program is required to control seed production and prevent the continued growth of the large underground root system. Applying Esplanade™ in addition Navius® FLEX to leafy spurge infestations will provide both pre and post‑emergent control for bareground application while Navius FLEX alone will provide post-emergent control in rangeland and non‑crop areas while allowing desirable forage grasses to flourish. Control should include an integrated program using herbicides as a tool in addition to other control methods.

The benefit of using herbicides with residual control is to prevent the germination of seedlings throughout the year. Herbicides should be applied when the plant is actively growing to maximize uptake and translocation to the root:
  • In late May and June once flowering has started but before seed production
  • In early September once growth has resumed

As part of an integrated control program, once a leafy spurge infestation has been controlled with herbicides, it is essential to prevent new infestations. While the absence of leafy spurge will facilitate the regrowth of desirable vegetation, seeding and fertilization will further promote the competitive growth of desirable cover.

Additionally, cleaning equipment after herbicide application within a site, mowing, ditching, or any work on infested sites is critical to prevent linear spread down rights‑of‑way or to new fields.

No matter what kind of vegetation management problems you’re up against, Envu has a full range of solutions to help you take control.

For more information about leafy spurge, download the solution sheet or contact your local Territory Sales Manager for leafy spurge control strategies specific to your needs.

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