Knowledgebase

Chickweed #871362

Asked June 03, 2024, 3:47 PM EDT

If anyone would like to revise the extension website for the "common" gardener, I would suggest that the weed identification page start with photos of plants. I have searched and searched for information about handling chickweed and other weeds, but if I don't know the Latin name to get started, I am out of luck. I learned by googling it that chickweed is "Stellaria media"-- but I certainly never would have found that readily on your site which is designed for professionals and plant experts. (My husband and I listen to the garden show on WCCO faithfully every Saturday morning. Have learned a lot there, but still need visual clues to identify plants.) Thanks!!

Dakota County Minnesota

Expert Response

Weed identification is very difficult.  Weeds look different in different stages of growth. Many weeds look alike (and look like garden plants). So a page of photos of weeds may not be especially helpful.  There are some good sites and helpful books.  Check through this site:
https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2014-08/weed-identification-resources
I find this site especially useful in Minnesota:
https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/
There are several plant identification apps, some that are free.
Dennis in St. Louis Park Replied June 03, 2024, 5:03 PM EDT

Loading ...