Mouse-ear Chickweed

Cerastium holosteoides

General - Mouse-ear Chickweed is a short lived perennial weed that forms a dense mat in lawns and turf.

This prostate growing weed can easily tolerate close mowing.

Leaves - The tiny oblong leaves have pointed tips, they are very fleshy and covered with hairs.

Flowers - The small flowers on Mouse-ear Chickweed have 5 white petals.

Each petal is deeply notched, giving it the appearance of 10 petals.

Flowers can be seen between April and November.

Roots - Mouse-ear Chickweed has a shallow fibrous root system.

Habitat - The weed can tolerate most conditions but prefers areas that are shaded and moist.

Cultural Control - Hand weed before infestation becomes widespread. Slashing at the weed or raking the weed into an upright position prior to mowing may help weaken the weed.

Maintain the health of the lawn to help discourage weed invasion.

Chemical Control - If you go down the chemical weed killer route, consider spot treating the weed if the problem is fairly localised.

Mouse-ear Chickweed is susceptible to most weed killers and is usually controlled in one a single application.

For the best results apply weed killers when the weeds are actively growing usually between April and September.

It is important to follow the manufactures health and safety guidelines when applying chemicals to lawns.