Many parts of Australia have been affected by drought in recent times. Lawns in those areas have tended to thin out and die back. Dryness combined with mowing too close has created perfect conditions for bindii to thrive.

Bindii (Soliva pterosperma)

In summer, this prickly lawn weed causes misery for humans and animals alike. That is why it’s important to tackle the problem in winter, before the plants set their seed.

Control methods include:

• Spraying with products such as Chemspray Bin-Die or Yates Weed ‘n’ Feed, which will also kill other broadleaf weeds. (Note: products containing Dicamba can harm nearby shrubs and trees, so be sure to follow the directions on the container.)
• Removing the bindii by hand.
• Keeping the lawn well maintained, thus providing competition for the weeds.
• Water and fertilise regularly, and raise the mower height up a notch so that you don’t scalp the grass.
  

Further information

Yates Double Action Liquid Weed 'n' Feed costs around $10 for 2.4 litres, and Chemspray Bin-Die costs about $15 for 200mL.

Copyright CTC Productions 2003