Best weed killers in Australia 2024

The best weed killers in Australia

• Best natural/organic weed killer: Roundup Naturals Glyphosate-Free Powerful Weed Killer
• Best overall weed killer: Yates Ready to Use Zero Rapid 1 Hour Action Weed Killer
• Best selective weed killer: Nufarm Kamba M Selective Herbicide
• Best non-selective weed killer: Roundup Fast Spray Ready Weedkiller
• Best cheap weed killer: Garden Basics Ready to Use Weed Kill
• Best weed killer for garden beds: Yates Ready to Use Nature's Way Organic Weed Killer Spray
• Best weed killer for large areas: Roundup Herbicide Liquid Concentrate Weedkiller
• Best pet-friendly weed killer: Natural Armor 30% Vinegar Pure Natural & Safe Industrial Strength Concentrate
• Best weed killer for grass: Roundup Tough Ready to Use Pump 'N Go Weedkiller
• Best weed killer for buffalo grass: Surefire Buffalo Bindi & Broadleaf Weedkiller
• Best weed killer for clover: Amgrow Multiweed All Purpose Lawn Weeder

For this list, we picked products based on actual customer reviews and ratings on Amazon, Bunnings and eBay. For every category, we carefully chose parameters based on our research and determined products with the highest review score within those parameters.

Read more detail on our methodology below.

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Why we chose it

With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon, we recommend Roundup's Naturals Glyphosate-Free Powerful Weed Killer as the best natural/organic weed killer.

This Roundup natural herbicide is made of 100% natural active ingredients to bring visible results in just an hour. It is free of glyphosate and remains effective within 3 hours even when it rains. According to the company, it completely kills weeds in 24 hours, allowing you to replant or reseed right after.

This natural weed killer comes premixed with a pressure spray, making it convenient for spraying gardens, pathways and other areas. Customers loved its fast-acting formula that effectively gets rid of most unwanted weeds. It also doesn't leave any residue in the soil. However, several customers said that its sprayer is hard to use. Others also mentioned that they needed multiple coatings to kill stubborn weeds, but this seems to be an isolated issue.

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Why we chose it

Our pick for the best overall weed killer is Yates' Ready to Use Zero Rapid 1 Hour Action Weed Killer. It has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on Bunnings and eBay.

Yates' Ready to Use Zero Rapid 1 Hour Action Weed Killer is a non-selective, all-purpose weed killer that effectively gets rid of different weeds within an hour. According to the manufacturer, it is rainproof after 30 minutes and is non-residual – you can plant on the sprayed area after 7 days.

Customers gave positive feedback on the product's convenience, fast action and versatility. It produces visible results within an hour, but since it's a non-selective herbicide, it will kill everything it touches. Reviewers also loved that it's safe for pets and children once dried. However, there were complaints about the trigger being difficult to use. A few others also mentioned that a single bottle isn't enough to cover larger areas, but this seems to be a minor concern.

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Why we chose it

For the best selective option, we recommend Nufarm's Kamba M Selective Herbicide. At Bunnings, it has a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars.

Nufarm's Kamba M Selective Herbicide is a 5L weed killer that can treat up to 7,500sqm of turf. It can control a variety of weeds, including bindii, clover, capeweed and thistles. It's a glyphosate-free solution with dicamba as an active ingredient.

Reviews said that it effectively kills weeds after just a day. A few others also added that it gets rid of flat weeds and broadleaf weeds, leaving their lawn luscious and healthy. One 5L jug is also enough to cover larger areas, according to customers. However, the company mentioned that it's not suitable for buffalo turf.

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Why we chose it

When it comes to non-selective herbicides, we chose Roundup's Fast Spray Ready Weedkiller as the best option. It has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars at Bunnings.

Roundup's Fast Spray Ready Weedkiller is a non-selective herbicide that can tackle all your weed problems within an hour. The ready-to-use formula works on most weeds and grasses, with a 5L bottle covering up to 75sqm.

The general sentiment is that this herbicide is a powerful, fast-acting weed killer for controlling anything in your garden or pathway. One reviewer added that it controlled the weeds on their pebbled driveway without damaging the pebbles. It comes in child-resistant packaging for better security as well. Several customers wish it came with its own sprayer but added that it's not really a huge issue.

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Why we chose it

Garden Basics' Ready to Use Weed Kill is our pick for the best cheap weed killer available online. It has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars on Bunnings.

Garden Basics' Ready to Use Weed Kill is a non-selective herbicide that controls foliage and roots. It comes in a ready-to-use trigger spray bottle, allowing you to spot-weed. It is also non-residual, which means you can plant in the sprayed area after several days.

Since it contains glyphosate, this herbicide will kill anything it comes into contact with. Customers loved using it for weeding their gardens and paths. Others also mentioned that it works just as well as other pricier options. However, it has a strong chemical scent that may be off-putting. Additionally, a single 1.2L bottle isn't enough for larger areas.

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Why we chose it

For garden beds, we recommend Yates' Ready to Use Nature's Way Organic Weed Killer Spray as the best weed killer. It has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Bunnings.

Australian Certified Organic and approved for organic gardening, Yates' Ready to Use Nature's Way Organic Weed Killer Spray is a glyphosate-free, non-selective herbicide that controls a wide range of garden weeds. It can kill dandelions, clover, broadleaf weeds, algae and moss. It is non-residual, allowing you to replant after 7 days of spraying.

Customers gave positive feedback on the product's organic formula, fast action and ease of use. This herbicide is clove-oil based, which controls some weeds within an hour. At a little under $25, it's quite an economical option for garden beds, rockeries and driveways. However, it's not rainproof; the company advises not using the product if rain is likely within 2 hours.

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Why we chose it

With a rating of 5 out of 5 stars on Bunnings, we picked Roundup's Herbicide Liquid Concentrate Weedkiller as the best weed killer for large areas.

Roundup's Herbicide Liquid Concentrate Weedkiller is a powerful water-soluble herbicide that controls annual and perennial weeds, such as chickweed, sow thistle, blackberry and bamboo. A 5-litre bottle can cover up to 1,000sqm or an area up to the size of 4 tennis courts. It comes in child-resistant packaging and is non-residual.

Roundup is Australia's best-rated weed killer brand, gaining the highest marks when it comes to ease of use, effectiveness and value for money. The brand's Herbicide Liquid Concentrate Weedkiller quickly kills weeds thanks to its powerful non-selective formula. It also doesn't remain active in the soil, allowing you to plant after just 7 days. However, we recommend taking extra precautions when using this herbicide as its strong concentration may cause some skin irritations.

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Why we chose it

For the best pet-friendly option, we picked Natural Armor's 30% Vinegar Pure Natural & Safe Industrial Strength Concentrate. It has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon.

About 6 times stronger than vinegar, Natural Armor's 30% Vinegar Pure Natural & Safe Industrial Strength Concentrate is a natural herbicide that can also be used as a deodoriser and surface cleaner. It is environmentally friendly and safe for use around pets.

This non-selective weed killer effectively kills overgrown and stubborn weeds in gardens, patios and other large areas. Because it has a potent 30% vinegar formula, reviewers recommended wearing protective gear before usage to avoid any irritation. Customers also loved using this product to keep their households sparkling clean. At over $180 for a gallon, it's more expensive than traditional weed killers. However, customers said that its eco-friendliness, versatility and potency are well worth it.

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Why we chose it

Roundup's Tough Ready to Use Pump 'N Go Weedkiller is our choice for the best weed killer for grass. It has a rating of 4 out of 5 stars at Bunnings.

Roundup's Tough Ready to Use Pump 'N Go Weedkiller is a premixed herbicide that effectively kills weeds and grasses – roots and all. It comes with a Pump n Go pressurised spray for easier usage. According to the company, it is rainproof after 30 minutes and is non-residual. After 7 days, you can safely replant or reseed in the sprayed area.

Customers praised the product for being convenient and fast-acting. The premixed formula is suitable for people with busy schedules. The included spray head has 2 spray patterns: foaming action and drip guard, allowing you to evenly coat those pesky weeds. This non-selective herbicide is suitable for onion weed, blackberry, English ivy and other grasses. However, some customers said it's not strong enough for their liking. Others also said the spray is quite difficult to use, but this seems to be a minor issue for most buyers.

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Why we chose it

Surefire's Buffalo Bindi & Broadleaf Weedkiller is our pick for the best weed killer for buffalo grass. On eBay, it has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars.

Surefire's Buffalo Bindi & Broadleaf Weedkiller is a concentrated herbicide formulated with bromoxynil and MCPA. Bromoxynil is a nitrile herbicide used for post-emergent control of annual broadleaf weeds, while MCPA is a phenoxy herbicide used for perennial weeds. This powerful solution also effectively gets rid of stubborn weeds on buffalo, kikuyu, couch, Queensland and blue couch grasses.

The general sentiment is that this weed killer is a potent product that easily kills various weeds in different grass types. Customers said it's especially effective for buffalo and kikuyu grasses, leaving their turfs luscious and healthy sans weeds. It's a concentrated formula that needs to be mixed with water, which may be a con if you're new to herbicides or lead a busy lifestyle.

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Why we chose it

For clover, we recommend Amgrow's Multiweed All Purpose Lawn Weeder as the best weed killer. It has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Bunnings and eBay.

Amgrow's Multiweed All-Purpose Weeder is a selective herbicide used to kill oxalis, bindii, dandelion, flat weeds and many more. It is suitable for most lawn types, including blue couch, carpet, Kentucky bluegrass and ryegrass. However, it's unsuitable for buffalo lawns.

Despite its small size, this concentrated formula can cover up to 125sqm. Additionally, you only need about 20ml mixed in 6 litres of water for a 10sqm area. Customers said that it quickly kills stubborn weeds and grasses. But despite being a selective solution, one review said it still impacts nearby plants. To avoid this issue, we recommend using a more effective selective herbicide instead.

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Amazon prices last updated on 20 November, 2024 at 06:01 ameBay prices last updated on 19 November, 2024 at 10:23 am

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What is a weed?

A weed is a plant that grows somewhere it isn't wanted. Weeds offer no value at all to your lawn, and they steal water and other nutrients from your lawn and plants.

Many weeds also spread easily and can be quite invasive, ruining the look of your otherwise well-manicured lawn. Common weeds in Australia include clover, dandelion and the dreaded bindii.

Weed killers are herbicides that use chemicals to attack and kill weeds. However, the way they work, and the parts of the plant they target, can vary from one product to the next.

What types of weed killer are available?

Before you can start shopping for a weed killer, it's important to understand that weed killers work in different ways. As a result, the right product for you will depend on the weed problem you need to tackle.

Pre-emergent weed killers stop weeds from germinating, while post-emergent products kill weeds once they appear through your soil. You can also differentiate between weed killers based on their method of operation:

• Contact weed killers. These herbicides are designed to kill the portion of the plant they come in contact with. They're fast-acting, widely available and typically a good choice for annual weeds, but they may not be enough to completely destroy a weed.
• Systemic weed killers. These products are absorbed by the weed and make their way into its root system. They inhibit the growth of the plant and slowly kill it off, so they're useful for killing perennial weeds.
• Residual weed killers. Residual weed killers are long-lasting herbicides designed to create a protective barrier to stop weeds from growing. However, using them means you won't be able to plant anything in the same area for months, so these products are commonly used to tackle weeds that sprout up through cracks in paths or gaps between pavers.

Weed killers can also be selective or non-selective:

• Selective weed killers. As the name suggests, these products will only target specific plant species. This means you can typically use them safely without having to worry about killing off your lawn, but be aware that some products should not be used on buffalo grass.
• Non-selective weed killers. These products are designed to kill any plant they come into contact with. This means you need to use care when spraying to ensure that you only kill off the weeds you're trying to target.

How to compare weed killers

You'll need to consider several factors when deciding on the right weed killer for your needs.

How to control weeds without using chemicals

While you can overcome weed problems with weed killers, prevention is always better than a cure. There are plenty of simple things you can do to minimise the weeds in your lawn without having to reach for the chemicals:

• Choosing the right grass. Some grasses are better than others when it comes to competing with weeds for water and nutrients. However, the right grass for your yard will vary depending on where you live, so ask your local garden centre for advice.
• Looking after your lawn and garden. A healthy lawn will be better placed to compete with weeds for water and nutrients, so fertilise your lawn to keep it in the best possible shape. Laying mulch in your garden will also give weeds less of a chance to propagate.
• Weeding by hand. It can be hard work, but weeding by hand or with a weeding tool will help you stay on top of your weeds and stop them from spreading.
• Consider organic products. If you're worried about using a product containing chemicals produced in a lab, you can always consider using an organic weed killer. You'll find several products to choose from at your local garden store.

3 things to consider

There are a few other factors you should consider before buying weed killer:

• Read the label. Under Australia's labelling requirements, products can be classified as exempt from poison scheduling or they must be a Schedule 5 or Schedule 6 poison. Schedule 5 poisons (look for the word "Caution" at the top of the label) have a low potential for causing harm, while Schedule 6 poisons (look for the word "Poison" at the top of the label) have a moderate potential for causing harm.
• When to apply. Check the label for instructions on the best time to apply a product, such as on still rather than windy days and when there is no rain predicted.
• Ask for advice. If you're unsure about the best approach for controlling weeds in your lawn or garden, don't hesitate to ask for help at your local garden centre. They'll be able to provide advice based on your situation and the growing conditions in your area.

Ready to start shopping? Check out our guide to the best weed killers.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do you properly apply a weed killer?

  Don't mow your lawn if you plan to use a weed killer. Water your lawn lightly and apply the product evenly using a spray. If you're using a concentrated weed killer, dilute an appropriate amount with water. Don't water your lawn for at least 2 days. Stay off the lawn for at least 24 hours to let the killer work its magic. Keep children and pets away from your treated lawn as some killers may be toxic to them.

• How often should you use a weed killer?

  Most weed killers should be applied twice a year. However, some products don't need reapplication for up to a year. It is also best to use a weed killer in the spring to catch weeds in their pre-growth.

• Are weed killers harmful to humans?

  Most weed killers contain strong chemicals harmful to humans if swallowed or absorbed into the skin.

Best rated weed killer brand award breakdown

Roundup	7.94	4.40	4.02	4.48	4.48	3.71
Bunnings	7.81	4.27	4.04	4.35	4.20	3.71
Hortico	7.74	4.24	4.10	4.44	4.12	3.62
ALDI Gardenline	7.57	4.00	4.43	4.24	4.19	3.57
Other	7.53	4.08	4.08	4.17	4.13	3.71
Yates	7.37	4.06	3.71	4.41	3.98	3.55
Dicamba M	7.23	3.88	3.38	4.25	4.00	4.13
Slasher	7.22	3.93	3.13	4.53	3.87	4.20
RichGro	7.20	3.88	3.88	4.25	3.83	3.63