How to Get Rid of Broadleaf Weeds in Your Lawn

How to Get Rid of Broadleaf Weeds in Your Lawn
Your Guide to a Cleaner, Greener Lawn

Broadleaf weeds are one of the most common (and annoying) problems in New Zealand lawns. Clover, dandelion, plantain, capeweed—they spread fast, crowd out healthy grass, and ruin the look of your lawn.

The good news? You can control them with the right spray and good timing. Here’s how to knock them back using products we stock right here at Sprayshop.

1. What Are Broadleaf Weeds?

Broadleaf weeds are any weeds that aren’t grasses. They typically have wide, flat leaves and stand out easily in your lawn. Common culprits include:

• White clover
• Dandelion
• Plantain
• Capeweed
• Creeping oxalis
• Dock and thistles (often in rougher areas)

These weeds are tough and persistent—but thankfully, selective herbicides will knock them down without damaging your lawn grass.

2. Use the Right Broadleaf Herbicide

We’ve tested and stocked the best options for NZ lawns. Our go-to product is:

Lawn Guard (1L or 5L)
Great for: General broadleaf weed control (clover, dandelion, plantain, dock, etc.)
Why we like it: Easy-to-use formulation that’s tough on weeds but safe on established lawns.

General Lawn Weeds (spring or autumn):

• Mix 80ml in 10L of water
• Spray over 100m² of lawn
• Keep children, pets, and wildlife off the lawn until it’s dry

Hard-to-Kill Broadleaf Weeds

Convolvulus, docks, sorrel, cape ivy, thistles, buttercups

• Mix 120ml in 5L of water
• Spray when weeds are actively growing and fully leafed out

Woody Scrub Weeds

Inkweed, lupin, fennel, broom

• Spray between November and March
• Mix 120ml in 5L of water

3. Spray at the Right Time

For the best results:

• Spray when weeds are actively growing (spring to autumn)
• Apply on a calm, dry day
• Avoid mowing for 2–3 days before and after spraying
• Don’t spray if rain is due within 6 hours

4. Follow Up with a Second Hit

Some weeds—like creeping oxalis or mature capeweed—may need a second spray 2–3 weeks later. It also helps to keep up with lawn feeding and mowing. A thick, healthy lawn naturally chokes out new weeds.

5. Need a Sprayer? We’ve Got You.

From handheld sprayers to backpack units and tow-behind options, we’ll set you up with the right gear to get the job done cleanly and efficiently.

Let’s Get Your Lawn Looking Sharp Again

If you’re dealing with broadleaf weeds, come see us at Sprayshop. We’ll match you with the right chemical and sprayer and give you real advice based on your lawn type and weed pressure.

Call us, flick us a message, or pop in-store—let’s bring your lawn back to life.