Spartan Herbicide - What is pre-emergent herbicide and when should it be applied?
Pre-emergent herbicides such as Spartan are great at preventing weeds in lawns and gardens and applying at the correct time can make them far more effective.
Looking for long-lasting pre-emergent weed control? Discover how Spartan Herbicide helps stop weeds before they start. Ideal for professional and home lawn care.
What Is Spartan Herbicide?
Spartan Herbicide is a powerful pre-emergent weed killer that prevents unwanted annual grasses and broadleaf weeds before they emerge. It's widely used in turf management, particularly in Australia, for its long-lasting results and reliability in both warm and cool climates.
How Spartan Herbicide Works
Spartan contains the active ingredient Prodiamine, which forms a protective barrier in the soil. This stops weeds like crabgrass, winter grass, and crowsfoot from germinating and taking root.
✅ Pro Tip: Spartan does not kill existing weeds. It’s a preventative solution, best used before weed seeds germinate.
When and How to Apply Spartan Herbicide
Timing is everything with pre-emergents. Apply Spartan before the weed seeds start sprouting — ideally at the beginning of the weed’s growing season.
Ideal Application Times:
- Late summer to early autumn (for winter weeds)
- Late winter to early spring (for summer weeds)
Application Steps:
- Mix Rate: Between 10 - 40mL per 100sqm. Check label for exact rate for your situation.
- Use a pressure sprayer: Apply evenly over your lawn.
- Water in: Spartan must be watered in within 7 days to activate the herbicide barrier.
- Avoid disturbance: Don’t aerate or disturb the soil after application.
What Weeds Does Spartan Control?
Spartan targets a broad range of common turf weeds including:
- Winter grass (Poa annua)
- Summer grass
- Crabgrass
- Crowsfoot
- Chickweed (in combination with other pre-emergents)
🧪 Use a post-emergent herbicide such as Odessa to treat weeds that have already appeared.
Is Spartan Herbicide Safe?
Yes, when used correctly. Spartan is safe for most warm-season turf types, including:
- Buffalo
- Couch
- Kikuyu
- Zoysia
Safety Guidelines:
- Keep pets and children off treated areas until watered in and dry
- Wear gloves, long sleeves, and eye protection during mixing and spraying
- Avoid applying to newly seeded lawns
Spartan vs. Other Pre-Emergent Herbicides
|
Feature |
Spartan Herbicide |
Other Pre-Emergents |
|
Active Ingredient |
Prodiamine |
Varies |
|
Duration of Control |
Up to 6 months |
3–4 months |
|
Rainfast |
After watering in |
Depends |
|
Turf Safety |
Excellent |
Varies |
|
Application Flexibility |
Home & commercial use |
Varies |
Key Features:
- Controls winter grass (Poa annua) and other annual weeds
- Safe for use on established turf
- Provides up to 6 months of residual control
- Easy to apply with a standard sprayer
Where to Buy Spartan Herbicide
Spartan Herbicide is available online and at a range of garden centres across Australia.
FAQs About Spartan Herbicide
Q: Does Spartan Herbicide kill weeds I can already see?
A: No. It’s a pre-emergent herbicide, meaning it prevents weeds from sprouting. Use a post-emergent alongside it for visible weeds.
Q: How long does Spartan last?
A: Spartan provides weed prevention for 4 to 6 months, depending on application rate and weather.
Q: Can I use Spartan on new lawns?
A: No. Wait at least 6 weeks after seeding or laying turf before applying Spartan. A minimum of 3cm root depth is required before application to new lawns.
Q: How long before I water it in?
A: Water Spartan into the soil within 7 days of application for activation.
Final Thoughts
If you're looking to prevent weeds before they take over your lawn, Spartan Herbicide is one of the most effective and long-lasting solutions on the market. With professional-grade control and safe use on a variety of turf types, Spartan is a smart investment for lawn lovers and landscapers alike.
💡 Pro Tip: Use Spartan in a seasonal weed control program for a lawn that stays green and weed-free all year long.
Mighty Goat Lawns 🐐
Published by: Vedran Malic