Review of 7 of the best weed killer in Australia
(Guide to using the right herbicide and keeping your dog safe)
What is the best weed Killer (Herbicide)?
Weed killer also known as herbicide is a gardening chemical used to remove weeds. There are different types of weed killers and a lot out there.
This product guide will help kill weeds off your lawn and keep your lawn looking great.
The following types of weed are common in Australian lawns; Buffalo grass, Broadleaf weeds, Bindi, Capeweed, Clover, Dandelion, Thistles, Winter grass. These weeds can be killed with the following weed killer products mentioned on this page.
What are the different types of weed killers?
There are different ways to kill weeds from organically/naturally to using herbicides (weed killer). There are 3 types of weed killers used to manage your weed problem.
A weed killer can come as a pre-emergent, or selective weed killer or non-selective weed killer. It all depends on how you want to kill your weed problem.
How do you want to kill your weed problem?
Kill the weed every 3 to 8 months – Pre-emergent weed killing
Pre-emergent weed kill requires you to know when the weeds are about to grow. The weeds germination period. This is key in making the pre-emergent weed killer work well.
During the germination period, pre-emergent weed killer needs to be applied at the soil level. Depending on the pre-emergent product, it can last between 3 to 8 months.
Oxafert
- last 3 months
- Stops new seeds from growing
- Fertlises soil
Embargo
- Last 3-6 months
- Stops new seedlings from growing
Specticle
- 8 months protection
- Warm season turf
- No concerns for stain or odour
Kill the weed frequently – Selective weed killing
Protecting your lawn and killing weeds requires a carefully picked weed killer product. Before applying a weed killer on your turf, you should know which types of weed is growing. Read this guide to identify the weed.
Selective weed killing is killing specific weeds and protecting your grass. The weed killer is to be applied after weeds have appeared in your turf.
The following 2 products don’t kill your grass and only kill specific weeds:
Selective Weed Killer Products:
Scotts Lawn Builder 2.8L Bindii Weedkiller
- Easy to use
- Requires water to mix
- Does not kill lawn
Amgrow 250ml Multiweed All Purpose Lawn Weeder
- Concentrate requires preparation
- Does not kill lawn except buffalo
- Effective
Kill all weeds
Killing all weeds in your yard, means you will be using stronger herbicides and this has the ability to damage your grass. It should be also advised, to take care of your pets when using weed killers. Read this guide on pet friendly weed killers.
There are some weeds which require a stronger weed killer. The products are known not to be active in the soil. However they go to the roots of the weed and effects can be seen quickly. Recommended not to use on vegetable gardens.
Non Selective weed killer Products:
Roundup 1.2L All Purpose Ready To Use Weedkiller
- Easy to use
- Not active in soil
- Kills difficult weeds including Bamboo
Controls and kills:
- Most or all garden weeds
- Kills difficult weeds including bamboo
Hortico 1L All Purpose Weed Killer 360
- Concentrate requires preparation
- Strong and effective
Kills all weeds and grass
How to pick the right weed killer?
Picking the best weed killer for your needs, will come down to the following questions:
- Do you have pets or animals that come into your yard?
If you have pets or animals that go onto your turf, then use a pet friendly weed killer or organic killer. Read more about pet friendly weed killer here.
- Do you want to kill just the weed?
If you want to kill just the weeds. Then use selective weed killers listed earlier.
- Do you want your lawn to look great?
If you want your lawn to look great, then this means extra work will be required to remove the weeds. This means use pre-emergent weed killer and also be aware of the cycles of weeds. You want to kill the weed during germination.
Another option is use selective weed killers, you will need to read the specifications carefully before applying it.
- Do you want an easy to use weed killer?
Most weed killers are already mixed, like Roundup and can be applied straight away. The effects are almost immediate. Beware that Roundup does damage your grass. Always read the specifications and instructions at the back.
How to an apply weed killer on your lawn?
Once you have bought the weed killer, it’s always a good idea to test it on a small area of grass before applying it on the whole yard.
- If you are using a pre-emergent weed killer, always apply it during the germination process of the weed. Read this weed identification guide to know more about weed cycles. (Bindii grows from Autumn to Spring, perfect time to kill them)
- Don’t apply the weed killer after the lawn has been mowed.
- If you are using concentrate weed killer, read the instructions always and do not create a strong weed killer which destroys your lawn as well.
- Always read the instructions and wear protective clothing.
- Keep pets and children away from sprayed area. Once it’s safe again, then open the area up again.
- Don’t water your lawn after application.
Why use weed killer on your lawn?
Having a great looking lawn is relaxing and it’s great for children and pets to hang around in the yard. By managing and controlling weeds, you reduce and eliminate weeds coming into contact with children and pets.
Also if you have a vegetable or flower garden, then by having no weeds, your garden looks 10x better.
