Chickweed Guide

Effective Methods for Killing Chickweed in Your Lawn

Chickweed (Stellaria media) is a low-growing plant that, while edible, is often viewed as an invasive weed in lawns and maintained landscapes.

Proper timing is key when tackling chickweed. This guide outlines the most effective strategies for removing chickweed from your lawn with professional-level results.

Using a pre-emergent herbicide is an effective way to prevent chickweed seeds from germinating and developing into new plants. To achieve optimal results, apply a pre-emergent herbicide in the fall, as this disrupts chickweed's winter germination and growth cycle. Timing is crucial—applying by late September is ideal, though some chickweed may have started flowering by then. For improved year-round control, consider a second application in early spring, typically in February or March.

Keep in mind that many pre-emergent herbicides are not recommended for newly seeded lawns or areas that will soon be overseeded. Always carefully review the product label for application instructions and timing recommendations. The manufacturer will provide information on when it’s safe to apply other treatments. While some herbicides allow simultaneous use with other products, this must be explicitly stated on the label.

Watch the video below for guidance on selecting the right pre-emergent herbicide and proper application methods.

Why Use Fall Pre-Emergent Herbicides? - Weed Prevention Tips
Our team of experts at DoMyOwn has selected top-rated pre-emergent herbicides to help you control and prevent this invasive winter annual weed effectively.

If chickweed is already growing and spreading in your lawn, the most effective solution is to apply a 3-way or 4-way ester formulation post-emergent herbicide. Timing is key—apply the herbicide while soil temperatures remain above 50 degrees for it to work effectively. In most areas where chickweed is common, this means treating your lawn before November or after February, as these are the months when chickweed is actively growing and most vulnerable to treatment.

Be cautious when using post-emergent herbicides, as some products are not safe for specific grass types, such as certain varieties of St. Augustinegrass. Always read the product label thoroughly to confirm it is compatible with your lawn.

Check out the products recommended below for some of the best post-emergent herbicides for controlling chickweed, as selected by our DIY lawn care experts.

Removing chickweed by hand can be challenging, especially since it tends to form dense, matted patches in bare areas of a lawn. Once the plants mature and their roots are firmly established, pulling them out without breaking the stems and roots becomes difficult. To make the process easier, loosen the soil with a hoe or trowel before attempting to pull the weeds. For best results, target chickweed earlier in its life cycle—when seedlings first emerge in early winter—when they are easier to remove.