Control of Turf grass Weeds

Abstract

Weeds most often become established in a weakened turf; thus, knowing turf weaknesses often helps to understand the reason for weed encroachment and how it may be reduced (Color Plate 8-1). Weak turf and bare areas exist because of: (i) improper turf species for a given area; (ii) damage from pests such as diseases, insects, nematodes, and animals; (iii) environmental stresses such as excessive shade, drought, heat, cold, and poor drainage; (iv) improper turf management practices such as misuse of fertilizer and chemicals, improper mowing height or frequency and lack of proper soil aeration; and (v) physical damage and compaction from concentrated traffic. Unless factors contributing to turf decline are corrected, continued weed encroachment should be expected. Weed control techniques include prevention, as well as cultural, mechanical, biological, and chemical control.