Broadleaf Weeds - Vacant Lot - Common Chickweed
BES-TEX Weed ID Guide · Broadleaf Weeds
Common Chickweed
Stellaria media
Winter annual Broadleaf
Common Name
Common Chickweed
Latin Name
Stellaria media
Family
Caryophyllaceae
Life Cycle / Type
Winter annual · Broadleaf
What Is It?
Common chickweed is a low-growing winter annual broadleaf weed with small oval leaves and fine trailing stems. It forms dense mats and produces small white star-shaped flowers. It is commonly found in thin turf, shaded areas, and moist or compacted soils.
Soil Temperature & Germination
Common chickweed germinates as soils cool in the fall.
Below 55°F
Germination begins
Cool winter soils
Continued growth and spread
Decision Question
Is the weed visible above the soil right now?
Why This Weed Comes Back
Missed fall pre-emergent timing
Thin or shaded turf
Excess moisture or compacted soil
Learn the Basics
A healthy, thick lawn is the best defense against weeds.
