Germander Speedwell (Veronica chamaedrys)

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General Information: Germander Speedwell is a perennial weed but is normally less of a problem on lawns than Slender Speedwell. They spread by both underground and over ground runners. It is also known as Bird's-eye Speedwell.

Leaf: The leaves are kidney shaped and have prominent viens with heavily toothed edges.

Flower: The flowers can be seen between April and June. They are blue/purple coloured and have four petals with a white center.

Preferred Habitat: Germander Speedwell can survive in all soil types but it favours moist, damp soils conditions.

Control: Hand weeding may be possible if there are a few plants in the lawn. When mowing the lawn collect all of the clippings as this weed can re-establish its self vegetatively. Regular raking will also help to weaken Germander Speedwell, again making sure you collect all of the debris..

Once Germander Speedwell has become a widespread a chemical weed killer will be needed for effective control. As we mentioned earlier speedwell is a difficult weed to control. Use a selective herbicide containing or fluroxypyr, clopyralid & MCPA for the best results, mecoprop-p and dicamba may also have limited success in controlling this weed. A repeat application 6 weeks later will be necessary, even then success may be limited. Our weed control section has advice and tips on the application of selective weed killers.

Recommended selective weed killers for Germander Speedwell.

Verdone Extra (fluroxypyr, clopyralid & MCPA).
Westland Resolva lawn weed killer (MCPA, mecoprop-p & dicamba).

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