Which cultural practice can help prevent weed growth?

Regular core aerifying is beneficial in preventing weed growth as it enhances soil aeration and promotes healthy turfgrass growth. Aerification involves removing small cores of soil from the turf, which reduces soil compaction and allows for better water infiltration, nutrient absorption, and root development. When the soil is well-aerated, turfgrass can establish stronger roots and outcompete weeds for resources such as light, water, and nutrients. This competitive advantage is crucial because healthy turf can crowd out weed species, thereby minimizing their growth.

Additionally, well-aerified lawns can better withstand stress from environmental factors, further reducing the potential for weeds to establish.

In contrast, infrequent fertilization could lead to weak turf, making it susceptible to weed infestation. Overwatering may create a favorable environment for weeds and promote disease, while planting diverse species can enhance biodiversity, but it doesn't directly address the specific issues of compaction that aerification mitigates. Overall, regular core aerifying is a proactive strategy that directly contributes to maintaining a healthy turf environment that discourages weed growth.