We all enjoy the cooler months in the garden for the change of routine. Not having to mow as regularly is a real plus, but unfortunately this allows the weeds to move in. A variety of winter weeds including winter grass, bindii & dandelions, thrive when mowing is less frequent, giving them the opportunity to flower and then seed. This increases the infestation for the following year so dealing with them quickly is the secret to success.
Flat, broad leaf of the Dandeloin Feathery leaf of the Bindii
Hand pulling is your best plan of attack, with poisons contributing to the decimation of our bee populations. Unfortunately in this time poor world, it isn’t always a viable option. If your weed problem is only small then consider weeding them out by hand as they are very easy to remove. I find this process very therapeutic, particularly on a gorgeous winters afternoon while the kids are playing. Weed seedlings are easiest pulled but essentially the key is to remove them before they flower and set seed. The chooks will love them, otherwise add to your compost bin or worm farm, depending on how many you have.
Breaking the seed cycle is imperative to avoid a greater infestation next year. Ensuring you address weeds before they flower and set seed is the only way to get on top of things. In the cases of bindii, the prickle is the problem. Tiny seeds attached to a prickle for perfect dispersion around the garden. The Bindii prickle is so robust it will embed into the bottom of soft soled shoes like thongs and be transported all over the place.
Sometimes using sprays is the only approach. This being the case using a lawn weed spray (like a weed and feed product) & for Bindii, a specific weed spray, will ensure you don’t poison your lawn. We suggest applying to weeds that are not yet flowering to reduce the impact on bee populations. Bees are attracted to the flower and so if you can spray before the flower appears then you will doing you very best to support the bee population. These little guys are getting a really hard time and without them we will all suffer.
