Timing is critical
Bindii can be sprayed from mid-June onwards. Immature plants are easier to kill, however, it is necessary to delay spraying until a full emergence has appeared.
Do not delay for too long, though, as flowering begins in spring and once the seed spines have formed the lawn will be prickly and uncomfortable for the rest of the season. It is better to spray twice than to wait too long for full emergence.
Be guided by the application times on the label of the product you purchase. Where the problem has been overlooked and some prickles have formed, it is still worthwhile spraying as the plants can be killed, preventing them from forming many more prickles.
Avoid spray drift
Take care to avoid spray drifting onto garden plants, especially roses, pome and stone fruit, and grape vines. These are very sensitive to the MCPA component of the products and, even if they do not suffer permanent damage, the chemical contact will produce unsightly twisted leaves. If some accidental spray drift does occur, its effects can be reduced if the plant’s leaves are immediately hosed off with water.
Contract spraying
If you do not wish to do the spraying yourself, see the list of weed spraying contractors in the Yellow Pages (look under Weed Control Services) or online. Contact a contractor in advance so they can schedule your job. Also point out other weeds you may want controlled at the same time, and any roses or other sensitive plants that may be at risk from the spray.