Spot Spraying Tough Weeds in Summer: What Works (and Where)

Summer is a great time to control deep-rooted, woody and invasive weeds. Learn what to use, when to treat, and how to get better long-term results.

Summer is one of the most effective times of year to deal with deep-rooted, woody and invasive weeds. With growth in full swing, visibility is high and active leaf area makes herbicide uptake more efficient. Whether you're managing paddocks, rough ground, fencelines or public green spaces, knowing what to use and when is key to saving time and getting results.

Here’s your practical guide to the right tools and techniques for effective spot spraying in June and July.

What are you trying to Control?

Not all weeds are equal. Here's how to match product type to weed type:

Woody/Brush

Examples: Brambles, gorse, saplings, ivy

Recommended: SBK Brushwood Killer and KPlus+

Deep-Rooted Perennials

Examples: Docks, thistles, nettles

Recommended: Grazon Pro

Total Clearance

Examples: Mixed weeds, rough ground, fence lines, site clearance

Recommended: Roundup ProVantage

SBK Brushwood Killer and KPlus+

SBK is ideal for tackling woody species, stumps and shrubs without harming grass. Use KPlus+ as an adjuvant to improve penetration through waxy or woody foliage. It’s a go-to for fencelines, tree bases and neglected areas that need reclaiming.

Grazon Pro

Selective and powerful, Grazon Pro is widely used in paddocks and pastures where you need to preserve grass while eliminating troublesome weeds like docks, nettles and thistles. Use with a Knapsack Sprayer for targeted application. Be sure to follow grazing interval guidelines before reintroducing livestock.

Roundup ProVantage

For contractors needing a complete vegetation knockdown, Roundup ProVantage is a high-strength glyphosate weedkiller approved for use in public spaces. It’s ideal for pathways, industrial estates, schools, and roadside maintenance. No residual action, so you can reseed once regrowth is under control.

Best Practice for Spot Spraying in Summer

Check the weather – Aim for dry, calm days with no rain forecast for at least 6 hours.
Use the right Nozzle – A low-drift, coarse droplet spray reduces waste and improves targeting.
Add KPlus+ – This adjuvant helps active ingredients stick and penetrate foliage more effectively.
Avoid mowing too soon – Let the herbicide move through the plant. Cutting too early can reduce effectiveness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Spraying in full sun or hot temperatures (can cause scorching).
Missing the re-treatment window – some tough weeds need a second round after 3–4 weeks.
Using a total weedkiller on grass where you actually need a selective option.
Not following label instructions on water volume or mixing rates.

Need Help Choosing?

We stock a wide range of professional-grade herbicides ,sprayers and application accessories to suit your needs. If you're unsure what’s best for your site, our technical team are on hand to help.

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