Mouse-ear chickweed can be a real nuisance in established turf, but there are effective ways to bring it under control. One option is to use chemical herbicides, which can be applied in either the spring or fall. Two commonly used herbicides for controlling mouse-ear chickweed are MCPP and dicamba.
MCPP and dicamba work by targeting and killing the weed, but it’s important to note that MCPP can also harm bentgrass, so if your turf includes this species, dicamba is the better choice. It’s crucial to carefully read and follow the instructions on the herbicide label to ensure proper application and avoid any potential damage to desirable turf species.
I have personally dealt with mouse-ear chickweed in my own garden, and using dicamba proved to be effective in controlling its growth. I applied it in the spring when the weed was actively growing, and within a few weeks, I noticed a significant reduction in chickweed population.
When using herbicides, it’s important to consider factors such as weather conditions and the presence of other desirable plants nearby. It’s best to apply herbicides on a calm day when there is no rain in the forecast to prevent the herbicide from drifting onto other plants. Additionally, it’s a good idea to spot treat the affected areas rather than applying the herbicide to the entire turf, as this can help minimize any potential damage to desirable plants.
In addition to using herbicides, there are also cultural practices that can help prevent and control mouse-ear chickweed. Regular mowing at the appropriate height for your turf type can help prevent the weed from establishing and spreading. Proper fertilization and irrigation practices can also promote a healthy and dense turf, which can help suppress the growth of chickweed and other weeds.
To summarize, mouse-ear chickweed can be effectively controlled with the use of chemical herbicides such as MCPP or dicamba. Dicamba is the better choice when bentgrass is present in the turf. However, it’s important to carefully follow the instructions on the herbicide label to ensure proper application and avoid any potential damage to desirable plants. Additionally, cultural practices such as regular mowing, proper fertilization, and irrigation can help prevent and control mouse-ear chickweed.
