Sand spurs (also called sandburs or grass burrs) are one of the most frustrating lawn weeds in Florida and South Georgia. These spiny seed pods can turn a barefoot walk across your yard into a painful experience. Here's what you need to know about eliminating them for good.

What Are Sand Spurs? Sand spurs (Cenchrus species) are grassy weeds that thrive in sandy, dry, and nutrient-poor soils — exactly the conditions found across much of North Florida and Southeast Georgia. They produce sharp, barbed seed pods from late spring through fall.

Prevention Is Key The best defense against sand spurs is a thick, healthy lawn. A dense turf crowds out weeds naturally. Make sure you're mowing at the correct height for your grass type, watering deeply but infrequently, and fertilizing on schedule.

Pre-Emergent Herbicide Apply a pre-emergent herbicide in late February to early March — before soil temperatures consistently hit 52°F. Products containing pendimethalin or dithiopyr are effective against sand spur germination. A second application 8-10 weeks later provides extended control.

Post-Emergent Options If sand spurs have already sprouted, use a post-emergent herbicide labeled for sandbur control. MSMA was the go-to for years but is now restricted. Look for products with sethoxydim (for centipede and St. Augustine lawns) or foramsulfuron.

Long-Term Strategy Improve your soil health with proper fertilization and aeration. Fill in thin areas by overseeding or plugging with your existing grass type. The thicker your lawn grows, the less room sand spurs have to take hold.