7.4 Cultural Control of Broadleaf Weeds

Broadleaf weed populations in turfgrass are influenced by cultural practices. For example, low mowing and inadequate nitrogen favor white clover. Low mowing also weakens turf and favors weeds such as carpetweed, spurge, plantains, and dandelion. Poorly drained areas can favor weeds such as ground ivy, while compacted sites favor knotweed and plaintains.

Proper management practices to maintain a dense, vigorous turf is the best and most lasting method for broadleaf weed control. Of particular importance are proper fertilization, mowing, and watering. Several broadleaf weed species cannot be satisfactorily controlled with herbicides, further increasing the importance of proper cultural management to reduce their establishment and spread. Herbicides should be considered an aid, but not a cure, for broadleaf weed problems in landscaped turf.