Henbit and chickweed are common winter annual weeds that germinate in fall, stay low through winter, then explode in early spring. They’re most noticeable when they flower—henbit with purple blooms and chickweed with tiny white flowers—but the easiest time to control them is in fall.
Quick Henbit & Chickweed Control Tips
- Fall control is easiest—treat in September/October for best results
- Use a fall pre-emergent in mid–late September to prevent germination
- Spring sprays can help, but are usually less effective
- Thick, healthy turf reduces infestations long-term
- Late-fall broadleaf sprays (Nov) can clean up young plants
Henbit & Chickweed: Early Spring Weeds That Start in Fall
Henbit and chickweed are winter annual weeds with nearly identical life cycles. They germinate in fall, remain relatively inconspicuous through winter, then grow rapidly as temperatures warm in spring. They often disappear once summer heat arrives—but by then they may have already dropped seed for next year.
How to Identify Them
Henbit
- Flowers: Small purple, trumpet-shaped blooms in spring
- Leaves: Scalloped leaves often with a slight purple cast
- Habit: Upright to spreading winter annual that becomes obvious in early spring
Chickweed
- Flowers: Tiny white flowers
- Leaves: Small, round, bright green leaves
- Habit: Low, mounding growth that spreads across thin turf
Best Defense: A Thick, Healthy Lawn
Both weeds are far less of a problem in dense, well-maintained turf. Proper mowing, fertilizing, and watering help grass outcompete winter annual weeds by reducing the sunlight weed seeds need to germinate.
Best Control Window: Fall Prevention
Even though these weeds are most noticeable in spring, the best control happens in fall.
Fall Pre-Emergent (Most Effective)
Apply a pre-emergent in mid to late September to prevent germination. Options include:
- Ferti-lome For All Seasons
- Hi-Yield Turf & Ornamental Grass & Weed Stopper
Spring Control Options (Less Reliable)
By spring, plants are already established, so control is harder and may be incomplete. A broadleaf post-emergent such as Ferti-lome Weed Free Zone can provide partial control, especially when weeds are still small.
Late Fall Cleanup (Often Works Well)
If plants have germinated and are still small, a late-fall application (often around November) can be very effective—this is commonly the same timing people use for fall broadleaf spraying.
*Always read and follow label instructions when applying any lawn or garden product.