What practice can help reduce turf pest populations effectively?

Effective turf management practices, such as proper watering and mowing, can significantly reduce turf pest populations. Adequate watering ensures that the turf is healthy, which can make it more resilient to pests. Healthy grass is better able to withstand stress and damage from pests, thus reducing their overall impact.

Mowing is equally important; maintaining the appropriate height can improve the density of the grass. Taller grass can shade out weeds and create a less favorable environment for certain pests. Additionally, regular mowing encourages the grass to grow more vigorously, which can outcompete pest infestations.

In contrast, practices like over-fertilizing can lead to excessive growth that weakens turf health in the long run, while frequent pesticide applications can disrupt beneficial organisms necessary for natural pest control and lead to pest resistance. Soil compaction, on the other hand, can harm root development and limit aeration, making the turf more susceptible to pests. Thus, the combination of proper watering and mowing serves as a proactive approach in managing turf health and minimizing pest issues effectively.