Choosing the Right Weed Killer for Your Lawn in Central Queensland
Keeping a healthy lawn in Central Queensland isn’t just about mowing and watering—it’s also about managing weeds. With our warm climate and seasonal rainfall, weeds can quickly take over if left unchecked. But choosing the right weed killer depends on the type of grass you have and the weeds you're dealing with. Using the wrong product can damage your lawn, so it’s worth taking a moment to get it right.
Step 1: Know Your Lawn Type
In this region, common lawn types include:
Buffalo Grass (e.g. Sir Walter, Palmetto): Soft, broad-leafed and shade-tolerant.
Couch Grass (e.g. Green Couch, Blue Couch): Fine-textured, sun-loving.
Kikuyu: Fast-growing and hardy, great for high-traffic areas.
Zoysia: Low maintenance, slow-growing with a dense growth habit.
Each of these grass types reacts differently to herbicides. Buffalo, in particular, can be sensitive, so always check the label to ensure the product is safe for your grass type.
Step 2: Identify the Weed
Common Central Queensland lawn weeds include:
Bindii (Jo-Jo): Spiky little menace that thrives in winter.
Clover: Usually a sign of low nitrogen in the soil.
Nutgrass (Sedge): Tough and invasive, grows from underground tubers.
Summer Grass & Crabgrass: Fast-growing annuals that smother turf.
Broadleaf weeds: Such as dandelion, thistle, or capeweed.
Each of these may require a different approach—some need a selective herbicide, while others need a targeted, specialised product.
Step 3: Choose the Right Weed Killer
There are two main types of herbicides:
Selective weed killers target specific weeds (like broadleaf weeds) without harming your lawn.
Non-selective weed killers (like glyphosate or organic options) kill all green plants—use only in garden beds, paths, or spot-treatments away from turf.
For Buffalo lawns:
Use a herbicide clearly labelled as safe for buffalo grass. Look for products with bromoxynil and MCPA, which control bindii, clover and other broadleaf weeds without damaging buffalo. Be cautious—many couch-safe products can harm buffalo lawns.
For Couch, Kikuyu and Zoysia:
These lawns are more tolerant. Products containing dicamba, MCPA, or clopyralid are effective against broadleaf weeds. However, overuse can still stress the grass, especially during heat or drought.
For Nutgrass and sedges:
You’ll need a specialist herbicide such as Sedgehammer or another product with halosulfuron. These target sedge species without affecting most lawns.
For organic or non-chemical options:
Try Organic Slasher Weedkiller, made from plant oils. It’s non-selective, so it will damage grass if sprayed directly—but it’s great for edges, paths, or garden beds.
A Few Tips for Success
Spot spray where possible to reduce chemical use.
Don’t spray on windy days—overspray can damage nearby plants.
Follow label directions carefully and avoid using more than recommended.
After treating, keep up with lawn maintenance—healthy grass is your best defence against weeds.
Still unsure which weed killer to use? Come see us at Tanby Garden Centre. We’ll help you choose the right product for your lawn type and the weeds you're battling—plus share tips on how to keep your turf looking its best year-round.