For some, the quest for a weed-free garden never ends.
Summer is over, so your lawn is about to go into winter dormancy, making it the perfect time for growing weeds.
If you have weeds in your garden, you first need to identify the type of weed to find out the best way to control it.
We’ve compiled a list of Australia’s most common weeds and how to eradicate them.
Alternatively, Weed Wise is an excellent starting point for all things weeds.
What happens to grass in autumn?
- Slower growth rates: As temperatures begin to drop and daylight hours shorten, grass experiences a decrease in growth rates.
- Changes in photosynthesis: With shorter daylight hours, grass changes its photosynthetic activity. As a result, the production of sugars and other carbohydrates that fuel growth and development during the growing season decreases.
- Preparation for dormancy: Grass begins allocating resources to prepare for winter dormancy. It shifts its focus from above-ground growth to strengthening its root system, which allows grass plants to withstand winter stresses better.
Do weeds grow on your lawn in autumn?
Weeds can grow on your lawn during autumn in Australia, depending on various factors such as climate, soil conditions, and the specific type of weed. In many parts of Australia, autumn brings cooler temperatures and increased rainfall, creating favourable conditions for weed growth.
Most common autumn lawn weeds
The most common autumn weeds are:
- winter grass
- broad leaf weeds like thistle, dandelion, creeping oxalis, clover, bindi eye and sour sob
Can you weed and feed in autumn?
In autumn, you can still use weed and feed products to help control weeds and nourish your lawn. Autumn is an excellent time for lawn care because the cooler temperatures allow grass to recover from the stresses of summer.
When applying weed and feed in autumn, it’s essential to choose a product specifically formulated for the type of weed and the type of grass.
How to kill winter grass
Hand pulling can be effective for small patches of winter grass, especially when the soil is moist. Remove the entire plant, including the roots, to prevent regrowth.
Selective herbicides specifically target winter grass while leaving your lawn grass unharmed. These herbicides are typically applied as a spray and work best when the winter grass is actively growing. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when applying herbicides. Munns Professional Winter Grass Killer is safe for use on Kikuyu, Buffalo, Couch and *Queensland Blue Couch. Read the label carefully before every use.
How to get rid of broadleaf weeds
Like winter grass, hand-pulling weeds can be adequate for small infestations of broadleaf weeds.
Selective herbicides specifically target broadleaf weeds while leaving grass unharmed. They are available in various formulations, including sprays, granules, and concentrates. For optimal effectiveness, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when applying herbicides, and consider using them when broadleaf weeds are actively growing.
Quick tips for caring for your autumn lawn
Consider these tips to keep your lawn in tip-top shape during autumn.
- Top dress your lawn: Top dressing involves applying a layer of soil, compost, or a mixture of both over the surface of the lawn.
- Fertilise now: Feeding your lawn helps with both summer recovery and winter preparation.
- Aerate the lawn: This can help with bare patches.
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