Stellaria media
broadleaf weedUSDA zones 2–10Active: spring, fall, winterCool-season annual that forms dense, low mats in moist turf. Thrives in shady areas and dies back in summer heat. One of the first weeds to appear in spring.
Small oval leaves in opposite pairs; tiny white star-shaped flowers with deeply notched petals; single line of hairs along stem.
Chickweed thrives in moist soil. Aerate compacted areas and reduce overwatering.
When: Aerate in fall; adjust irrigation year-round
Thick, healthy turf prevents chickweed establishment. Overseed thin areas.
When: Fall overseeding for cool-season lawns
Easy to pull due to shallow roots. Remove before seed set to prevent spread.
When: Pull in early spring before flowering
Most effective chemical option for chickweed. Apply to actively growing plants.
When: Apply in early spring or late fall when chickweed is actively growing
Active ingredient: Triclopyr — e.g. Ortho Weed B Gon Chickweed Killer
Grass safety: always match herbicides to your grass species — products safe on Kentucky bluegrass can kill St. Augustine or centipede. Lawn Guardian checks this automatically against your lawn profile.
Lawn Guardian turns this guidance into a schedule timed to your USDA zone and this week's actual weather — and adapts every time you log what you've done.
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