Brambles, gorse and broom are tough woody weeds which can grow quickly, taking over areas that could be grazed. “These sorts of weeds typically grow around the edges of fields and gateways,” says Dr Nicola Perry, weed biology specialist for Corteva Agriscience.

“Spot treatment is the best way to tackle them, spraying between June and the end of August before the plants start to die back in the autumn. Grazon^® Pro is ideal for spraying via a hand-held applicator like a knapsack.

“For best effect, perennial weeds like docks and thistles need cutting down to the ground before spraying the regrowth two to three weeks later. But bramble bushes, gorse and broom do not need cutting back and should be sprayed thoroughly, wetting all of the foliage, but avoiding any run-off.

Grazon Pro, containing clopyralid and triclopyr, is a professional-use product and spray operators must be certified to apply it. They should also wear personal protective equipment (PPE) including a face shield, gloves, coveralls and rubber boots.

The rate of application is 60ml in 10 litres of water. After application, livestock and horses should be excluded for at least seven days. Grazon Pro is very safe to grass and is rainfast in only two hours.

Grazon Pro also gives good control over invasive weeds like Himalayan balsam and Japanese knotweed. More details on the Corteva Grassland App.