How do I kill winter grass in buffalo?
Quick answer
Use only products whose label lists both winter grass and buffalo, because buffalo is sensitive to some herbicides. Prevention works best: a buffalo-safe pre-emergent in autumn before winter grass germinates. For plants already up, dig them out before they seed or use a selective product registered for winter grass in buffalo, applied exactly as the label says.
Why this happens
Winter grass in buffalo is a common problem, and it’s also where people most often damage their lawn. Buffalo is more sensitive than couch or kikuyu to some herbicides; at least one registered label for a common broadleaf active warns that buffalo is more easily damaged than other grasses. The rule is simple: if the label doesn’t list buffalo, don’t use it on buffalo.
The most reliable approach is to stop winter grass establishing. Winter grass germinates in autumn, so a pre-emergent whose label lists buffalo, applied before germination, prevents most of it. Keep the buffalo thick and well fed through summer and early autumn so there’s less bare soil for seedlings.
If winter grass is already up, you have two options. In small areas, dig it out with the roots before it seeds. Across larger areas, a selective post-emergent product registered for winter grass in buffalo can work, applied exactly at the label rate and in the conditions the label sets.
We only show products for this job when their label data confirms they list buffalo and winter grass. If none appear, that’s why: check the label of anything you’re considering.
Reading the label for buffalo
When you look at a product, check three places on the label:
- the crop or situation table, which lists the turf types the product can be used on. Buffalo must be listed
- the weeds controlled, which must include winter grass (or Poa annua)
- the critical comments and restraints, which often include grass-specific warnings, timing and conditions
If a product’s label says it’s not for use on buffalo, or doesn’t mention buffalo at all, it’s not a buffalo product.
What you may be seeing
- Pale, tufty grass standing out in your buffalo from autumn
- White seed heads through winter and spring
It depends on your grass and climate
| If you have… | What changes |
|---|---|
| Subtropical (for example Brisbane) | Buffalo keeps some colour over winter, so winter grass is less obvious early. Get the pre-emergent down before autumn germination. |
| Temperate (for example Melbourne) | Buffalo slows and pales in winter |
Rows that match the grass and climate zone you've set are highlighted. Set your climate zone
What you can do
Confirm it's winter grassCheck first
Look for soft, light-green tufts and whitish seed heads. See the winter grass page.
Read the label before you buyCheck first
The label must list buffalo and winter grass. If buffalo isn't listed, don't use it on buffalo.
Dig out small numbers
Lift plants with their roots before they seed. Patch the gaps so new seedlings don't take their place.
Autumn pre-emergentProduct step
Apply a pre-emergent labelled for buffalo before winter grass germinates. Water in as the label directs.
Selective spray if neededProduct step
For plants already growing, use only a selective product registered for winter grass in buffalo, at the buffalo rate.
What not to do
- Using a winter grass product made for couch or kikuyu on buffalo.
- Spraying a stressed, dry buffalo lawn; follow the label's conditions for application.
- Spot-spraying with a stronger mix than the label rate.
How much do I need?
A label rate of "20 mL per 100 m²" means: Rate 20, mL, per 100 m². Per hectare? Use 10,000 m².
How much you need
Enter your lawn area and a rate to see how much product and water you need.
Log it
Keep a record of what you applied, when, and at what rate. Your Lawn Journal works on this device without an account, and reminds you when the next step is due.
What's next
Related grass types, weeds, pests and diseases
Grass types
Weeds
Related questions
Related guides
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Sources
- Relyon MCPA 750 Selective Herbicide label (APVMA e-label 81841), APVMA e-label registerExample of a label warning that buffalo is more easily damaged than other grasses. Accessed 4 October 2026.
- Turf weed, pest and disease identification guide (poster), Bayer Environmental Science, hosted by Turf AustraliaWinter grass life cycle and autumn pre-emergent timing. Accessed 3 October 2026.
- Search registered chemical products and permits (PubCRIS), Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA)Check registrations and labels. Accessed 3 October 2026.