Last Updated on July 9, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
If you have a garden, then you know that weeds can be a huge problem. They can take over your plants and flowers, and they are difficult to get rid of. One type of weed that can be particularly troublesome is the weed with white flowers.
This weed can be tricky to identify, but once you know what it looks like, you can take steps to control it. In this blog post, we will discuss the identification and control of weeds with white flowers.
1. Chickweed (Stellaria media)
What is chickweed?
Chickweed is an annual herb in the carnation family, Caryophyllaceae. It is native to Europe, but can be found all over the world. Chickweed is a small plant with white flowers and small, oval leaves.
The stems are weak and often sprawl over the ground. Chickweed grows best in moist, shady areas and is often found in gardens, woodlands, and roadside ditches.
Chickweed has a long history of use in herbal medicine. It is used to treat a variety of ailments including skin conditions, respiratory problems, and digestive disorders. Chickweed is also said to be effective in treating obesity and diabetes.
What does chickweed look like?
Chickweed is a small, delicate-looking plant with small white flowers. The leaves are narrow and pointed, and the stems are hairy. Chickweed grows in clusters and spreads quickly. It is often found in lawns, gardens, and other areas where there is bare ground.
How to get rid of chickweed:
Chickweed can be a nuisance because it spreads quickly and can crowd out other plants.
The good news is that there are several ways to get rid of chickweed.
One way to get rid of chickweed is to pull it up by the roots. This can be time-consuming, but it is an effective method.
Another way to get rid of chickweed is to use a herbicide. Glyphosate is a herbicide that will kill chickweed.
You can also use mulch to prevent chickweed from growing.
2. Daisy (Bellis perennis)
What is a daisy?
A daisy is a small, flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The name “daisy” comes from the Old English word “dægeseage,” which means “day’s eye.” This is because the flower is said to open its petals at dawn and close them at dusk.
There are many different types of daisies, but the most common is the Bellis perennis. This plant is native to Europe and Asia, and has been introduced to North America.
The Bellis perennis is a perennial, meaning it will bloom year after year. It has a rosette of leaves at the base of the plant, and its flowers are white with a yellow center.
The daisy is a symbol of innocence and purity. It is also associated with love, beauty, and new beginnings. In some cultures, the daisy is thought to bring good luck.
What does daisy look like?
The daisy is a small, herbaceous plant with a yellow disc floret in the center and white petals around it. The leaves are green and lanceolate.
How to get rid of daisies:
If you have daisies in your lawn, you may be wondering how to get rid of them. The best way to get rid of daisies is to pull them up by the roots.
You can also use a weedkiller that contains glyphosate, but be sure to follow the directions on the label carefully. If you have children or pets, you may want to avoid using weedkillers. Another option is to mow your lawn regularly to keep the daisies from taking over.
3. Dandelions (Taraxacum)
What is dandelion?
Dandelion (Taraxacum) is a large genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. They are native to Eurasia and North America, but the greatest diversity is found in Asia. Many dandelions are cultivated as ornamentals or as herbs for their leaves, flowers, or roots.
Dandelions are most commonly encountered as weeds in lawns, but the plant has many other uses. Some dandelions are used as food, while others are used in traditional medicine. The leaves of some species contain significant amounts of vitamins A and C, calcium, iron, and potassium.
Dandelions are thought to be one of the oldest plants on Earth. They are mentioned in early texts from China and Europe, and have been used medicinally for centuries. The name “dandelion” is thought to come from the French dent de lion, or “lion’s tooth,” referring to the shape of the leaves.
What does dandelion look like?
Dandelions are easily recognizable by their bright yellow flowers and round, flat leaves. The leaves are arranged in a rosette around the stem, which can grow up to 30 cm tall. Dandelions have a deep taproot that allows them to access nutrients deep in the soil.
How to get rid of dandelion:
Dandelions are one of the most difficult weeds to control.
The easiest way to get rid of dandelions is to pull them up by the root.
You can also use a hoe or trowel to dig them up, but be sure to get the entire root.
If you just cut the leaves off, the dandelion will regrow.
Another way to kill dandelions is to apply a herbicide.
Glyphosate is a herbicide that will kill dandelions.
You can find glyphosate at your local garden center or nursery.
Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the label.
4. Fleabanes (Erigeron sp.)
What is fleabane?
Fleabane is a member of the daisy family that typically blooms in late spring or early summer. The plant is native to North America and can be found growing in fields, meadows, and along roadsides.
Fleabanes are annuals or short-lived perennials and range in height from six inches to three feet. The plants have slender stems that are often covered in fine hairs, and the leaves are lance-shaped or oblong.
The flowers of fleabane are small and white or pale pink, and they grow in clusters at the ends of the stems.
Fleabanes are not generally considered to be ornamental plants, but they can be attractive to bees and other pollinators. The plants are also sometimes used in naturalized plantings or as part of a wildflower garden.
Fleabanes are not difficult to grow, but they do prefer full sun and well-drained soil. The plants can be started from seed, and they will self-seed if allowed to do so.
Fleabanes are not particular about soil type and will even grow in poor, sandy soil. Once established, fleabanes are drought-tolerant and require little care.
How to get rid of fleabanes:
There are a few ways to get rid of fleabanes. You can either dig them up, pull them out, or spray them with an herbicide. If you have a lot of fleabanes, it might be best to hire a professional.
If you decide to dig them up, make sure you get all the roots. Fleabanes can regrow from just a small piece of root.
Pulling them out is another option, but it can be difficult to get all the roots. You may need to use a shovel or trowel to loosen the soil first.
Spraying them with an herbicide is probably the easiest way to get rid of fleabanes. Be sure to use a herbicide that is labeled for use on fleabanes.
You can also try to prevent fleabanes from growing in the first place by keeping your yard free of debris and weeds. Fleabanes often grow in disturbed areas, so keeping your yard clean will help discourage them from taking hold.
5. Hairy Bittercress (Cardamine hirsuta)
What is hairy bittercress?
Hairy bittercress is a small, white-flowered weed in the mustard family. The plant is native to Europe and Asia, but it has been introduced to North America, where it is now found throughout the continent.
Hairy bittercress is an annual plant, meaning it completes its life cycle in one year. The plant grows from seed to flower to seed again in a single growing season.
Hairy bittercress is considered a nuisance weed by many gardeners and farmers because it can compete with crops for space, water, and nutrients. The plant is also difficult to control once it becomes established in an area.
What does hairy bittercress look like?
Hairy bittercress is a small, annual weed that grows in lawns, gardens, and other disturbed areas. It has white flowers and deeply lobed leaves.
The stem and leaves are covered in fine hairs, which gives the plant a ‘hairy’ appearance. Hairy bittercress can be a nuisance in gardens and lawns, as it can spread rapidly and compete with other plants for space and nutrients.
How to get rid of hairy bittercress:
The best time to control hairy bittercress is before it sets seed. Small infestations can be pulled by hand. For larger areas, spot-treating with an herbicide that contains glyphosate may provide some control. Be sure to follow the label instructions carefully.
6. Mayweed (Anthemis cotula)
What is mayweed?
Mayweed is a flowering plant in the daisy family. The plant is native to Europe and Asia, but it has been introduced to North America, where it is now common in many parts of the United States and Canada.
Mayweed is an annual or biennial plant that grows to a height of 30-100 cm (12-40 inches). The leaves are oblong or lance-shaped, and the flowers are white with yellow centers. The plant blooms from May to September.
Mayweed is often considered a weed because it can spread quickly and compete with other plants for resources. However, the plant is also used as an herbal remedy for various ailments.
How to get rid of Mayweed:
Mayweed is a difficult plant to control because it can reproduce by seed, rhizomes, and stolons. The best time to treat mayweed is early in the growing season before it flowers and sets seed.
Mayweed is most active in full sun, so targeting areas of your yard that get the most sun will be most effective. Hand-pulling mayweed can be effective if done regularly. Be sure to dispose of the plants in a sealed bag so they don’t spread.
You can also mow Mayweed before it flowers to prevent it from setting seed. Be sure to bag the clippings and dispose of them properly.
Herbicides are not always effective on mayweed, but you can try using a post-emergent herbicide that contains glyphosate. Be sure to follow the directions on the label and apply when Mayweed is actively growing. You may need to reapply several times for best results.
7. Pearlwort (Sagina procumbens)
What is Pearlwort?
Pearlwort (Sagina procumbens) is a small, low-growing plant that is native to Europe and Asia. It is often found growing in damp, shady areas such as woods and meadows. The plant gets its name from the small white flowers that bloom in early summer.
Pearlwort is a member of the carnation family (Caryophyllaceae). It is related to other low-growing plants such as chickweed (Stellaria media) and micell (Minuartia verna).
The plant is a popular ground cover in gardens because it stays green all year round and spreads quickly. Pearlwort can be used in rock gardens, as a border plant, or as an edging for paths and walkways.
What does Pearlwort look like?
Pearlwort is a small, delicate plant that grows close to the ground. It has tiny white flowers and glossy green leaves. The plant gets its name from its pearlescent berries.
How to get rid of Pearlwort:
The best way to get rid of pearlwort is to pull it up by the roots. You can also try using a hoe or shovel to remove it from your garden. If you have a large infestation, you may need to use herbicide. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully.
8. Queen Ann’s Lace (Daucus carota)
What is Queen Ann’s Lace?
Queen Ann’s Lace is a flowering plant in the carrot family. The flowers are small and white, and they grow in umbrella-shaped clusters. The plant gets its name from the lace-like pattern of the flowers.
Queen Ann’s Lace is native to Europe and Asia, but it has been introduced to North America, where it is now a common weed. The plant grows in fields, roadsides, and other disturbed areas.
Queen Ann’s Lace is sometimes confused with poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans). However, Queen Ann’s Lace has hairy stems and leaves, while poison ivy has smooth stems and leaves. Also, Queen Ann’s Lace has white flowers, while poison ivy has greenish-white flowers.
How to get rid of Queen Ann’s Lace:
Queen Ann’s Lace is a common weed that can be found in many gardens and lawns. The plant is very invasive and difficult to control. If you have Queen Ann’s Lace in your garden, there are a few things you can do to get rid of it.
One way to control Queen Ann’s Lace is to pull it out by the roots. This can be difficult, as the roots are deep and strong. If you can’t pull it out by the roots, you can try to cut it down. However, this will only work if you cut the plant down before it seeds.
Another way to get rid of Queen Ann’s Lace is to use herbicides. There are many different types of herbicides that can be used to control Queen Ann’s Lace. Be sure to read the labels carefully and follow the directions before using any herbicide.
9. Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica L.)
What is stinging nettle?
Stinging nettle is a perennial herb that is found in temperate regions around the world. The plant can grow up to two meters tall and has small, green leaves that are arranged in pairs along the stem.
The leaves have serrated edges and are covered in tiny hairs that contain irritants. When these hairs come into contact with skin, they release the irritants, causing a stinging sensation.
Stinging nettle has been used medicinally for centuries to treat a variety of conditions. The leaves and roots of the plant are often dried and made into teas or tinctures. Stinging nettle is also available in capsules and tablets.
How to get rid of stinging nettle:
Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is a common weed in the United States. The plant gets its name from the fact that it can cause a stinging sensation when it comes into contact with skin.
If you have ever been unlucky enough to brush up against a patch of stinging nettle, you know just how unpleasant it can be.
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to get rid of stinging nettle. One option is to pull the plants up by the roots. This is best done in the spring or fall, when the plants are actively growing. Another option is to use a herbicide that contains glyphosate.
Glyphosate will kill stinging nettle, as well as any other plants it comes into contact with. So, be sure to use it carefully and only apply it to the areas where you want to get rid of stinging nettle.
10. White Clover (Trifolium repens)
What is white clover?
White clover (Trifolium repens) is a perennial herb in the legume family. It is native to Europe, but has been introduced to many other parts of the world. White clover is often used as a cover crop or green manure because it enriches soil with nitrogen. The plant’s small white flowers are a familiar sight in lawns and meadows.
White clover is a low-growing plant that spreads by creeping stolons. The leaves are trifoliate, meaning each leaf has three leaflets. The leaflets are oval-shaped with serrated edges and have a white V-shaped mark on the upper surface. The flowers are small and white, borne in dense clusters on slender stalks. The fruit is a small, dry seed.
White clover can tolerate close mowing and heavy grazing, which makes it a good choice for lawns and pastures. It is also tolerant of drought and poor soils. White clover will grow in sun or shade, but it prefers moist, well-drained soils.
How to get rid of white clover:
To get rid of white clover, you need to take a few steps.
First, you need to mow your lawn regularly. This will help to keep the clover from getting too big and taking over your yard.
Next, you need to apply a herbicide that is specifically designed to kill clover. Be sure to follow the directions on the herbicide label.
Finally, you need to fertilize your lawn. This will help to make your grass stronger and more resistant to weeds.
11. Wild violet (Viola sororia)
What is wild violet?
Wild violet is a perennial herb that is native to North America. It has small, heart-shaped leaves and purple flowers. The plant grows in woods, meadows, and gardens.
Wild violet is a member of the Violaceae family, which includes about 500 species of plants. The genus Viola contains about 100 species of violets.
The wild violet is the state flower of Rhode Island, Illinois, and New Jersey.
Wild violets are also the provincial flower of Prince Edward Island in Canada.
How to get rid of wild violet:
The best way to get rid of wild violet is to pull it up by the roots. You can also use a lawn mower or weed whacker to cut the plant down, but be sure to remove the entire plant. If you don’t, it will simply regrow.
You can also try smothering it with a black tarp or plastic. This will block out the sunlight and kill the plant.
Another method is to use herbicides, but be careful not to damage your other plants. Glyphosate is a popular choice, but you can also use triclopyr. Be sure to follow the directions on the label carefully.
12. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
What is yarrow?
Yarrow is a flowering plant in the daisy family. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. The leaves are alternate and compound, with each leaf having up to nine leaflets.
The flowers are small and white, borne in flat-topped clusters. Yarrow is a perennial plant that typically grows to between 30 and 100 cm tall.
Yarrow is a very versatile plant with a long history of use. It has been used medicinally for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, including wounds, infections, and fever. Yarrow is also a popular herb for making teas and tinctures. In the garden, yarrow can be used as an ornamental plant, or as a ground cover.
Yarrow is easy to grow and can be propagated from seed. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, yarrow is drought tolerant. Yarrow can also be grown in containers.
How to get rid of yarrow:
To get rid of yarrow, you can either pull it up by the roots or cut it back. If you want to prevent it from spreading, you can also mow it down. You can also use a herbicide, but make sure to follow the directions on the label.
Related:
- 13 Weeds With Blue Flowers: Identification and Control Methods
- 5 Weeds that Look Like Dandelions: How to Identify and Remove Them
- 29 Weeds with Yellow Flowers: Identification and Removal Tips
- 11 Weeds with Purple Flowers: Identification and Removal Tips
- 16 Weeds That Look Like Grass
Conclusion
In conclusion, weeds with white flowers can be a problem in the garden. However, there are many ways to control them. With a little effort, you can have a beautiful garden that is free of these unwanted plants.
Weeds with white flowers can be controlled by using herbicides, mulching, and hand-pulling.