What advice would you offer Mr. Kelly regarding weed control?

The advice to prepare the seedbed with nonselective herbicides before planting is crucial for effective weed control. This practice ensures that the area is cleared of existing weeds and their seeds prior to establishing new grass. By using nonselective herbicides, any competing vegetation, including perennial and annual weeds, is eliminated, creating a cleaner and more sustainable environment for the new turf to grow. This proactive step reduces the competition for resources such as water, nutrients, and light, which are essential for the establishment of the new grass.

In contrast, other strategies like planting flowers to compete with weeds may not effectively suppress weed growth, as flowers could still allow for weed colonization. Delaying planting until late spring could also be problematic since many weeds thrive in warmer conditions, potentially negating the delay's intended benefits. Applying herbicides only after the grass is established does not address existing weed problems at the critical time of establishment and may lead to an ongoing battle with weeds that could hinder the growth and health of the new turf. Therefore, preparing the seedbed with nonselective herbicides is a vital step for effective and long-lasting weed control in turf management.