Also, seeds can remain viable in the soil for up to 8 years. Leafy spurge produces a milky latex that is poisonous to some animals. Thus, most wildlife, such as bison, elk and deer, do not eat it. People should handle the plant with caution because the latex can cause irritation, blotching, blisters, and swellling in sensitive individuals. Theodore Roosevelt National Park uses chemical and biological control methods to fight this plant.
Chemical control consists of ground and aerial herbicide applications.
Biocontrol is proving to be very effective and are considered one of the safest ways to control leafy spurge. Right before our eyes, landscapes are being transformed back into native grassland species. Spotted knapweed reduces forage for wildlife and can double the amount of soil erosion when it invades rangeland. It was introduced by settlers from Europe in the early 1900s. Knapweeds are highly competitive and will readily establish on any soil surface.