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Weed Identification and ControlWeeds are plants growing where they are not wanted or simply, plants growing out of place. A major reason weeds are controlled in turf is they distract from the overall appearance of the turf. High-quality turf is often judged by its uniformity. Weeds, having different leaf shapes, sizes, colors, or growth habits, can reduce uniformity within a turf area. Several turfgrasses, for example tall fescue or creeping bentgrass, may be weeds when growing in Kentucky bluegrass turf areas because these grasses reduce the uniformity of the Kentucky bluegrass.
A second reason weeds are controlled is because they compete with turfgrasses for water, light, and mineral nutrients. As competitors with turfgrasses, weeds hinder turfgrass from achieving optimum growth and appearance.
A third reason for controlling weeds occurs in athletic turfs. For instance, the presence of weeds on a golf course putting green can alter the path of a putted ball. Low-quality turf is generally less safe for athletes than high quality turf because it provides less cushioning. Many low-budget football, baseball, and soccer fields have extensive populations of annual weeds. During heavy-use periods in mid to late autumn and early spring, players risk injury where weeds have died.
This information comes from the University of Illinois Turfgrass Program. |
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