2016-07-21_REVISION - M1980002 (2)

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Rangeland-Pasfure Recommendations Leafy spurge Identification and Management Leafy spurge (Euphorbia esida) is a non-native deep-rooted perennial that spreads by seeds and extensive, creeping roots. The roots can extend as deep as 30 feet into the soil and are extremely wide -spreading. The roots are brown and contain numerous pink buds that generally produce new shoots or roots. Leafy spurge can grow from 1 to 3 feet in height. The stems are smooth, pale green, and thickly clustered. Leaves are alternate, narrow, linear, and 1 to 4 inches long. The flowers are very small and yellowish -green. They are enclosed by very visible yellowish -green, heart -shaped bracts. The entire plant contains white, milky sap that exudes readily upon stem or leaf breakage. This sap can be damaging to eyes and sensitive skin. Leafy spurge is one of the earliest plants to emerge in the spring. Flower clusters develop 1 to 2 weeks after stem emergence which is from mid-April to late May. One large leafy spurge plant can produce up 130,000 seeds. Three - sided seed capsules explode when ripe and project the seeds up to 15 feet away from the parent plant. Leafy spurge has adapted to a wide variety of habitats in the state and is very competitive with other plant species. Where it becomes established in rangeland, pasture, and riparian sites, it crowds out aII other vegetation. The competitive, rapidly growing, and extensive root system makes leafy spurge very difficult to manage. Develop a management plan that uses several control methods that are compatible with your site. The most effective method of control for leafy spurge is to prevent its establishment through proper land management. Maintain healthy pastures and rangeland and continually monitor your property for new infestations. New infestations are much more easily controlled than established infestations. On the backside of this sheet are leafy spurge management recommendations. If you have any questions, please contact the Weld County Public Works Dept., Weed Division at (970) 304-6496 ext. 3770. PIease visit our website wwwmeldweeds.ore.