Effective cultural control measures include the proper selection and establishment of turfgrasses, adequate liming and fertilization, proper mowing practices, judicious watering, and insect and disease control. Turfgrasses that are not adapted to the environmental conditions and intended use of the turf may become weak, resulting in a thin stand. When there are voids in the turf, weeds have an opportunity to grow and compete with the desirable species. The use of proper establishment procedures helps to ensure that a dense turf will compete with germinating weed seedlings. Too high or too low a soil pH and inadequate fertilization lessens the competitiveness of turfgrasses, resulting in reduced density and subsequent weed invasion.
Soil testing is the key to proper pH management and fertilization.
Soil test recommendations provide guidelines for fertilization and liming to establish and maintain turfgrasses. Adequate nitrogen should be supplied to favor the desirable species in the stand. Phosphorus fertilization increases seedling vigor and is one factor in reducing weed infestations in newly established turf. Lime should be applied when the soil is too acid, and acidifying materials can be used when the pH is too high. Improper mowing is one of the most common causes of weed invasion.