How can I get rid of this plant? It is popping up everywhere.

Reporter
March 28, 2013, 2:30 a.m.

April 4, 2013

Ms. Tina Admire,

I would like to thank you for reporting your infestation of Myrtle Spurge (Euphorbia myrsinities) to the Oregon Invasive Hotline. This is a state listed noxious weed and a human health hazard, so I commend you on taking the initiative to control this invader on your property.

Myrtle Spurge is a escaped garden ornamental that does well in typically dry and disturbed areas. Like most members of the spurge family, the white milky sap can cause severe dermatitis if improperly handled. If you are working on this plant, you should be sure to wear long sleeves, pants, and shoes, as well as rubber gloves and eye protection to prevent exposure to the sap.

In terms of controlling and preventing the spread of Myrtle Spurge, manual removal can be quite effective. Plants can be dug up in the spring, when the ground is soft. You want to make sure to get as much of the root system as possible and follow up with removal on any regrowth. Myrtle spurge spreads primarily by seed, so you want to prevent seed production and control plants before or as soon as they bloom.

You can also treat Myrtle Spurge using herbicides, but I recommend this only for very large patches. For these large patches, research out of Colorado suggests that herbicide products containing 2,4-D and dicamba can be effective at controlling Myrtle Spurge. You should check with a local vendor for safe handling and availability. For more information about Myrtle Spurge you can check the following resources:

http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/PLANT/WEEDS/pages/profile_myrtlespurge.aspx
http://www.colorado.gov/cs/Satellite?blobcol=urldata&blobheader=application%2Fpdf&blobkey=id&blobtable=MungoBlobs&blobwhere=1231572928498&ssbinary=true
http://www.weeds.slco.org/pdf/MyrtleSpurge.pdf
http://www.cwma.org/myrtlespurge.html

If after reviewing this documentation, you choose to use chemical control options I strongly recommend that you carefully review the labels for whatever herbicide product you decide to use. As with all herbicides, the Label is the Law. Follow label recommendations and restrictions at all times. The label is designed to reduce harm to you and your property. If any information provided contradicts the label, the label takes precedence. Always follow the label.

Thanks again for taking the time to report your weed to the Oregon Invasive Hotline. It is always a pleasure to work with enthusiastic landowners like yourselves. Please feel free to contact me if you have any more questions.

All the best,

______________________________________

Samuel Leininger
WeedWise Program Manager
Clackamas Soil & Water Conservation District
221 Molalla Ave. Suite 102
Oregon City, OR 97045
503-210-6006
sleininger@conservationdistrict.org
www.conservationdistrict.org
______________________________________

Samuel Leininger
April 4, 2013, 2:55 a.m.