Mouse-ear Chickweed (Cerastium fontanum): Identification & Selective Herbicide Matrix
Quick Agronomic Summary
Triclopyr + Dicamba formulations (TZone SE) penetrate the fuzzy leaf surface much better than standard 2,4-D.
- Diagnostic Marker 1: Dense, dark green foliage covered in sticky, velvety hairs
- Diagnostic Marker 2: Oblong, rounded leaves resembling small mouse ears
- Diagnostic Marker 3: Stems rooting at lower nodes forming dense, competitive patches
What is the best herbicide for Mouse-ear Chickweed?
Triclopyr + Dicamba formulations (TZone SE) penetrate the fuzzy leaf surface much better than standard 2,4-D.
The dense hairs prevent water droplets from adhering. Adding a non-ionic surfactant (NIS) ensures herbicide uptake through the leaf hairs.
When to spray Mouse-ear Chickweed?
Spray in mid-to-late spring during active vegetative growth or in autumn.
Because it is a perennial, autumn treatments provide the deepest root elimination.
EPA-Registered Herbicides Labeled for Mouse-ear Chickweed
The table below compares all selective herbicides in our database that control Mouse-ear Chickweed, including active ingredient groups, application temperature limits (°F), and surfactant requirements.
| Brand Name & EPA Reg. | Active Ingredient & WSSA Group | Temp Window (°F) | Surfactant & Mixing Protocol | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SpeedZone Lawn Weed Killer EPA Reg. 2217-833 |
2,4-D 28.57%, Mecoprop-p 5.88%, Dicamba 1.71%, Carfentrazone-ethyl 0.62% Group 4 + Group 14 (Synthetic Auxins + PPO Inhibitor) |
50°F – 85°F Rainfast: 3h |
Do NOT add surfactant. Adding NIS or MSO increases ester volatility and causes severe contact burn on desirable cool-season turf. | Check Price at DoMyOwn View on Amazon |
| TZone SE EPA Reg. 2217-920 |
Triclopyr 7.72%, 2,4-D 29.36%, Dicamba 2.22%, Sulfentrazone 0.66% Group 4 + Group 14 (Pyridine Auxin + Phenoxy + PPO Inhibitor) |
50°F – 80°F Rainfast: 3h |
Do NOT mix with surfactant when temperatures exceed 75°F. In cool spring or fall conditions (55°F–70°F), 0.5 tsp NIS per gallon improves waxy leaf penetration on Wild Violet. | Check Price at DoMyOwn View on Amazon |
Turfgrass Compatibility Matrix for Mouse-ear Chickweed Herbicides
Always verify that your chosen herbicide is safe for your specific lawn grass before broadcast spraying:
How to Distinguish Mouse-ear Chickweed from Lookalike Weeds
| Lookalike Species | Key Botanical & Diagnostic Difference |
|---|---|
| Common Chickweed | Mouse-ear Chickweed is a perennial covered completely in soft hairs, whereas Common Chickweed is an annual with smooth leaves. |