Excessive traffic physically damages turf and also compacts soil. Thin turf, prone to weed invasion, can result. Perennial ryegrass and tall fescues can tolerate wear better than most other cool season grasses. Where appropriate, use these grasses in high traffic areas. In addition, where possible, use lightweight mowing equipment and alter the equipment's path to spread wear evenly over the use area.
Compaction reduces the quantity of large, gas-containing pore spaces in soils.
Cultivate these areas so that the turf can better compete with weeds. Along with compacted soils, other unfavorable growth environments can also create growing conditions to which weeds are more adapted than is turf. Prune or remove trees to allow more light to reach the growing area. This also can increase air movement and decrease disease problems. Excessively wet or dry soils also create environments in which weeds often grow better than does turf.