Herbicide use can be a health concern for the user. Using a dabber in place of a spray bottle, can greatly reduce the risks to humans and the environment.

When using a dabber the chemical is only applied to the target plant and the fine mist from a sprayer isn’t there to be inhaled or absorbed by the user or sprayed on to non-target species.

When mixing glyphosate for dabber application the recommended rate is a 1:1 mix with water, at 360g/L concentrate which is the standard strength found in common brands. The dabbers seen here take about 180ml so 90ml water and 90 ml Glyphosate.

Cut and dap hasn’t caught on yet as a description for this method. Use the dapper where the ‘cut and paint’ method is recommended for weed treatment. This method is mostly used on woody species but it can be wiped along scaped vines.

Having a stronger mix will generally not have a better kill. It usually shuts the plant down and allows them to recover. Remember to cut as low as possible and quickly after cutting. Within 15 seconds is recommended.

Read the labels and use all recommended Personal Protection Equipment, including goggles when mixing.

Herbicide dabbers can be brought from:

  • Sauers Produce Garden Centre, 13 Diamond St, Cooroy 4563 Ph 54425933
  • Fernland  31 – 35 Paulger Flat RD, Yandina QLD 4561  Ph 1800672794

Or online

  • Arborgreen Landscape Products  Ph 1300 760 642

Michelle Newall