True or False: Weeds are the cause of a poor turf, not the result of a poor turf.

• A. Not sure
• B. True
• C. False
• D. Both

Answer: (C)

Weeds are typically a sign of underlying turf problems, not the primary cause of poor turf. A healthy, dense turf canopy competes with weeds for light, water, and nutrients, helping keep them out. When turf is stressed—due to drought, soil compaction, poor fertility, incorrect mowing height, or pests/disease—the canopy thins or bare spots appear, giving weeds an opportunity to establish. So the statement is false: weeds usually indicate that the turf is already in trouble, and improving turf health is the key to reducing weed issues. Address cultural practices like proper mowing height, adequate fertility based on soil tests, correct irrigation, and aeration/overseeding as needed, and combine with targeted weed control when appropriate.