Sand spurs—also known as sandburs, grass burrs, or stickers—are a notorious weed that can turn a relaxing stroll across your lawn into a painful ordeal. These pesky plants thrive in warm, sandy soils, producing sharp, spiny burrs that cling to clothing, skin, and even your pets’ fur. If you’re battling a sand spur infestation, you’re likely wondering: What chemical kills sand spurs effectively? The good news is that there are several powerful herbicides designed to tackle this prickly problem, and in this guide, we’ll explore the best options, how to use them, and how to pair them with other strategies for long-term success.
Whether you’re a homeowner, gardener, or landscaper, you’ll find everything you need to banish sand spurs from your yard for good.
Understanding Sand Spurs: Why They’re a Problem
Before we get into the chemicals that kill sand spurs, let’s understand what we’re up against. Sand spurs (Cenchrus spp.) are annual grassy weeds that grow low to the ground, forming dense mats in dry, sandy soils. They’re particularly common in warm climates like the southern United States—think Florida, Texas, and California—where sandy conditions give them a competitive edge.
The real troublemakers are their burrs: small, spiky seed pods that latch onto anything that brushes by. These burrs aren’t just annoying—they’re painful, capable of piercing skin and causing injuries that can become infected if not treated. Worse, each burr contains one to four seeds that can stay viable in the soil for years, making sand spurs a persistent foe.
Why Sand Spurs Are Tough to Control
Seed Longevity: Seeds can remain dormant in the soil for up to five years, waiting for the right conditions to sprout.
Spreading Mechanism: The burrs hitch rides on people, pets, and wildlife, scattering seeds far and wide.
Adaptability: Sand spurs thrive in poor, sandy soils where desirable plants struggle, giving them free rein in neglected areas.
With these traits, it’s no surprise that sand spurs are classified as a noxious weed in 46 states, according to the USDA’s National Invasive Species Information Center. But don’t despair—chemical herbicides can stop them in their tracks when used correctly.
The Best Chemicals to Kill Sand Spurs
When it comes to eliminating sand spurs, chemical herbicides are your most effective weapon. There are two main types: pre-emergent herbicides, which prevent seeds from germinating, and post-emergent herbicides, which kill existing plants. Let’s break down the top options for each category.
1. Pre-Emergent Herbicides: Stop Sand Spurs Before They Sprout
Pre-emergent herbicides create a chemical barrier in the soil that stops sand spur seeds from germinating. These are your first line of defense and are most effective when applied in early spring, before soil temperatures hit 52°F (11°C)—the point when sand spur seeds typically start to sprout.
Top Pre-Emergent Herbicides
Pendimethalin
Found in: Pendulum, Pre-M
Best for: Warm-season grasses like Bermuda and Zoysia
How it works: Prevents cell division in germinating seeds, stopping growth before it begins.
Application tip: Water in after applying to activate the barrier.
Oryzalin
Found in: Surflan
Best for: Most turfgrasses, including St. Augustine
How it works: Inhibits root development in seedlings.
Application tip: Apply evenly to avoid gaps in coverage.
Dithiopyr
Found in: Dimension
Best for: Broad-spectrum weed control on various lawns
How it works: Targets early seedling growth, offering season-long protection.
Application tip: Can also provide some early post-emergent control if applied soon after germination.
How to Use Pre-Emergent Herbicides
Timing: Apply in early spring (February or March in the South) before soil temperatures reach 52°F. Use a soil thermometer or check local agricultural extension services for guidance.
Application: Spread evenly with a broadcast spreader, then water the lawn with 0.5 inches of water to activate the herbicide.
Frequency: For heavy infestations, a second application 6-8 weeks later can bolster control.
2. Post-Emergent Herbicides: Kill Sand Spurs After They’ve Sprouted
If sand spurs have already emerged, post-emergent herbicides are your go-to solution. These chemicals target actively growing plants and work best when sand spurs are young and small—typically in late spring or early summer.
Top Post-Emergent Herbicides
Celsius WG Herbicide
Active ingredients: Thiencarbazone-methyl, iodosulfuron-methyl-sodium, dicamba
Best for: Warm-season grasses (Bermuda, Zoysia)
How it works: Disrupts plant growth hormones and protein synthesis, killing weeds without harming grass in high temperatures.
Application tip: Apply with a sprayer on a calm day to avoid drift.
Glyphosate
Found in: Eraser 41% Glyphosate, Roundup
Best for: Spot treatments in non-lawn areas (driveways, sidewalks)
How it works: A non-selective herbicide that kills all plants by inhibiting an essential enzyme.
Application tip: Use a paintbrush or spot sprayer to target sand spurs without harming nearby grass.
MSMA (Monosodium Methyl Arsenate)
Found in: MSMA Target 6 Plus
Best for: Professional use on warm-season grasses (not St. Augustine or Centipede)
How it works: Penetrates leaves and disrupts plant metabolism.
Application tip: Restricted to non-residential areas in many states—check local regulations.
How to Use Post-Emergent Herbicides
Timing: Apply when sand spurs are young (2-4 inches tall) and actively growing, typically May to June.
Application: Use a pump sprayer for selective herbicides or a spot treatment for glyphosate. Follow label rates precisely.
Safety: Wear gloves, long sleeves, and eye protection; avoid windy days to prevent drift.
Pro Tip: For mixed lawns (e.g., Bermuda and St. Augustine), check herbicide labels to ensure compatibility with all grass types.
Beyond Chemicals: An Integrated Approach
While herbicides are powerful, they’re most effective when paired with cultural practices that strengthen your lawn and reduce sand spur opportunities. Think of it like building a fortress: chemicals are the guards, but a healthy lawn is the wall that keeps invaders out.
Cultural Practices to Prevent Sand Spurs
Mow High: Keep grass at its recommended height (e.g., 2-3 inches for Bermuda) to shade out weed seeds.
Fertilize Smart: Sand spurs love low-nitrogen soils. Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in spring and fall to boost grass vigor.
Water Deeply: Water to a depth of 4-6 inches once or twice weekly, encouraging deep grass roots that outcompete weeds.
Remove Burrs: Mow with a bag attachment or drag a blanket over the lawn to collect burrs before they drop seeds.
Analogy: Controlling sand spurs is like managing a stubborn ant infestation. Chemicals kill the ants you see, but sealing entry points (a healthy lawn) stops them from coming back.
Interesting Stats and Facts About Sand Spurs
Here are some verified stats and facts to highlight the scope of the sand spur problem:
Noxious Weed Status: Sand spurs are listed as a noxious weed in 46 states, per the USDA (2023 data), due to their invasive nature and impact on agriculture and recreation.
Seed Viability: Studies from the University of Florida show sand spur seeds can remain viable in soil for up to 5 years, making long-term control essential.
Pain Factor: Each burr contains 1-4 seeds, and their spines can penetrate skin, leading to infections if bacteria like Staphylococcus are present (UF/IFAS Extension).
Global Reach: While most prevalent in the U.S. South, Cenchrus species are found worldwide, from Australia to Africa, adapting to arid conditions.
These facts underscore why sand spurs are more than just a nuisance—they’re a widespread challenge requiring proactive measures.
Real-World Example: Tackling Sand Spurs in Texas
Imagine you’re a homeowner in San Antonio, Texas, with a Bermuda grass lawn overrun by sand spurs. The sandy soil and hot summers have given these weeds the upper hand. Here’s how to fight back:
Assess the Damage: Map out infested areas, noting where grass is thin.
Spring Prevention: In February, apply pendimethalin across the lawn and water it in.
Summer Cleanup: In May, spot-treat young sand spurs with Celsius WG, avoiding over-spray onto healthy grass.
Lawn Care: Fertilize with a 16-4-8 blend and mow at 2.5 inches to thicken the turf.
Burr Patrol: Use a bagged mower to collect burrs after each cut.
Within a season, your lawn could go from a prickly mess to a smooth, safe space—all thanks to the right chemicals and care.
FAQ: Your Sand Spur Questions Answered
Here are answers to common questions about killing sand spurs, addressing content gaps from typical online searches:
1. What’s the best chemical to kill sand spurs without harming my lawn?
For warm-season grasses, Celsius WG is a top choice—it’s selective and safe when used per the label. Check compatibility with your grass type.
2. When should I apply herbicides for sand spurs?
Pre-emergents: Early spring (before 52°F soil temp).
Post-emergents: Late spring/early summer when plants are young.
3. Can I use vinegar or other natural methods instead of chemicals?
Vinegar (acetic acid) can burn small sand spurs but won’t kill roots or prevent seeds. It’s less effective than herbicides for large infestations.
4. Why do sand spurs keep coming back after I kill them?
Dormant seeds in the soil can sprout years later. Annual pre-emergent applications and burr removal are key to breaking the cycle.
5. Are sand spurs dangerous to kids or pets?
Yes, burrs can injure paws or bare feet and may cause infections. Regular removal and control reduce risks.
6. What if I miss the pre-emergent window?
Focus on post-emergent control and cultural practices this season, then plan a pre-emergent application next spring.
Conclusion
Sand spurs may be a tough opponent, but with the right chemicals—pendimethalin, oryzalin, dithiopyr for prevention, and Celsius WG, glyphosate, or MSMA for active plants—you can take back your lawn. Combine these herbicides with smart lawn care, and you’ll not only kill sand spurs but also prevent their return. Whether you’re in a sandy Southern state or battling a small patch, this guide equips you with the tools and knowledge to succeed.
Ready to say goodbye to those painful burrs? Grab your herbicide, gear up with PPE, and start today—your feet (and your pets) will thank you!
