Chickweed

Chickweed Defined

Chickweed is an annual weed found throughout North America most commonly as a lawn weed. In lawns, it rarely grows taller than 2 inches. It grows along the ground and forms a thick, dense mat that produces small, white flowers. Chickweed has a shallow root system and like most annual weeds it is best controlled in the spring or fall.

Overview

Chickweed: Kill, Control & Prevent It

Look closely at the damp, shady spots in your lawn and you're likely to see chickweed. Also known as starwort, satin flower, and other names, this weed is an annual that grows from seeds that sprout in the fall. When it's in your lawn or under your shrubs, it can form thick mats that crowd out the plants you want. Fall and spring are the best times to control chickweed. Here's how.

Prevention and Maintenance

Chickweed in the Lawn

Treat chickweed in your lawn with a lawn weed control product such as Ortho® WeedClear™ Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Use. When used as directed, this product will kill the chickweed but not harm your lawn. Apply when chickweed is actively growing in the spring or fall and always follow label directions.

The best way to prevent future chickweed problems is to maintain a thick, healthy lawn. This is accomplished by feeding 4 times a year - two times in the spring and two times in the fall. A thick lawn will help prevent chickweed seeds from sprouting and seedling from becoming established. Deep, infrequent watering will also help discourage chickweed since they prefer damp soil.