How to Kill & Control Chickweed

Overview

Chickweed: Kill, Control & Prevent It

Chickweed, also known as starwort, satin flower, and other names, is an annual that grows from seeds that sprout in the fall. It is found throughout North America most commonly as a lawn weed. In lawns, it rarely grows taller than 2 inches 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. Here's how.

Prevention and Maintenance

Chickweed in the Lawn

Treat chickweed in your lawn with a lawn weed control product. To kill weeds and feed your lawns at the same time, use a product such as Scotts® Turf Builder® Weed & Feed or Scotts® Turf Builder® Triple Action. If your lawn has warm-season grass, such as St. Augustine, centipede, or zoysia, use Scotts® Turf Builder® Southern Triple Action or Scotts® Turf Builder® Bonus® S Southern Weed and Feed.


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 seedlings from becoming established. Deep, infrequent watering will also help discourage chickweed since they prefer damp soil.


Stop Chickweed from Growing

In the fall, you can prevent chickweed seeds from germinating by applying Scotts® Halts® Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer. While Halts® will not harm most lawns, always check the label before use.