Ants marching across a garden bed, spiders under the eaves, or lawn armyworm chewing through turf overnight — surface-active pests cover a wide range, and most people reach for whatever is on the shelf rather than the right product for the job.
Bifenthrin controls lawn armyworm, sod webworm, ants, spiders and other surface pests. This guide covers how long it lasts and whether to water it in or leave it on the leaf.
What is FIVESTAR Insecticide?
FIVESTAR Insecticide is a liquid concentrate containing 80 g/L bifenthrin, a broad-spectrum pyrethroid insecticide that is widely registered for use in Australia. Its strength lies in delivering robust protection—both contact kill and residual effect—against many common insects, while also being formulated to be easier to apply than many older or less concentrated chemicals. Its liquid format helps you apply precisely, reducing waste and lowering the risk of overapplication.
How FIVESTAR Works
Bifenthrin acts by affecting the nervous system of insects. When pests contact surfaces treated with FIVESTAR, they are disrupted and ultimately perish. In addition to immediate kill, bifenthrin is known for having residual activity — meaning it continues to protect treated surfaces for a time after application.
According to the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA), bifenthrin is approved for use against insect pests in crops, ornamentals, timber and turf, as well as general pest control uses such as ants, spiders, flies and mosquitoes.
Because of its mode of action, care must be taken to rotate modes of action and not overuse it, in order to help prevent insects developing resistance.
Which Pests Can FIVESTAR Control?
FIVESTAR’s spectrum of activity makes it highly versatile. Some of the pests it can help manage include:
Ants (excluding red imported fire ants)
Cockroaches
Mosquitoes, flies, fleas, ticks (excluding paralysis ticks)
Spiders
Paper-nest wasps
Termites (when used in accordance with directions and standards)
Aphids, whiteflies and other soft-bodied pests (on ornamentals)
In practice, you might apply it to outdoor surfaces, garden beds, lawns, structural foundations or around building perimeters — wherever insects lurk or enter.
Application Guidelines & Rates
Below is a quick reference of recommended rates. Always check the label for full “Directions for Use” and safety instructions before use.
| Target | Rate | Notes / Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Spiders (external areas) | 30–65 mL per 10 L water | For around homes, public buildings |
| Paper-nest wasps | 65 mL per 10 L water | External surfaces and surrounds |
| Ants, Cockroaches, Mosquitoes, Flies, Fleas, Ticks | 65–125 mL per 10 L | Adjust dose depending on severity |
| Ornamental plants | 25–100 mL per 100 L | Use lower end for light infestations |
| Turf | 15–60 mL per 100 m² | Use at least 2 L of water per 100 m²; irrigate afterward |
| Apples, Bananas, Pears | 10–250 mL per 100 L | Use carefully and within label constraints |
| Subterranean termites | As per detailed label directions | Requires specialised application (see section below) |
Mixing & Spraying Tips
Mix the required dose with water and stir thoroughly.
Use appropriate ground sprayers for even coverage — avoid fine fogging or misting which may drift or lack control.
For turf, ensure complete coverage by using adequate water volumes (e.g. at least 200 L spray per hectare).
Pre-application precautions
Remove pets and animals from the area.
Cover or remove food, water bowls, aquariums, ponds.
Avoid spraying during bee activity or on flowering plants when pollinators are active.
Post-application care
Allow treated areas to dry fully (typically 3–4 hours) before re-entry.
If you must re-enter earlier, wear protective clothing (gloves, boots, overalls).
Avoid application on waterlogged soil or immediately after heavy rain.
Tips & Best Practices for Safe Use
Wear protective gear: Always use chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection, long sleeves, long pants and respirator if required.
Avoid drift: Spray on calm days (low wind) and avoid overspray onto non-target plants, watercourses, or neighbour’s property.
Rotate insecticides: Avoid repeated use of the same active ingredient across seasons to reduce resistance development.
Spot test: On sensitive ornamental plants, test a small area first.
Respect buffer zones: Maintain distance from waterways, ponds or drains.
Clean up: After use, wash equipment thoroughly and avoid contaminating things like garden hoses that water edibles.
Storage: Keep FIVESTAR in its original, tightly sealed container, in a cool, dry, ventilated place away from direct sunlight, children, food or feed.
In case of spill, absorb with sand, earth or vermiculite and dispose of waste per local regulations.
Regulatory Safety, Risks & Precautions
While FIVESTAR is an effective insecticide, bifenthrin does carry risks if misused. Here are important points based on safety data and regulatory sources:
Bifenthrin is very toxic to aquatic organisms and may cause long-lasting effects in waterways. Great care must be taken to prevent runoff or drift into water.
It is classified by some sources as harmful if swallowed or inhaled, and may cause skin or eye irritation.
Some bifenthrin formulations are classified as hazardous under Safe Work Australia criteria for acute toxicity, respiratory hazard, or environmental hazard.
In Australia, since FIVESTAR contains a relatively high concentration (80 g/L), it must be used strictly according to label directions and within permitted use patterns. The APVMA regulates bifenthrin products and has previously conducted reviews of 80 g/L products to ensure they’re safe and label-compliant.
Always follow first-aid instructions in case of accidental exposure, and contact the Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26) in Australia immediately if ingestion or serious exposure occurs.
Avoid using it near water or allowing it to drift; do not pour unused concentrate into drains or waterways.
By taking these precautions seriously, you reduce risk to yourself, household members, pets, and the natural environment.
Why Choose Garden Nursery Products
Located on the Gold Coast, Garden Nursery Products offers fertilisers, pest and disease management chemicals, and more. If you’re on the Gold Coast and looking for a reliable way to protect your garden, lawn, or outdoor spaces from pests, visit our store or shop online.