Which of the following practices helps to maintain healthy turfgrass?

Maintaining healthy turfgrass is essential for a vibrant and playable golf course. Limiting thatch build-up is crucial because thatch is a layer of organic matter, including dead grass and roots, that accumulates on the soil surface. While a small amount of thatch can be beneficial for moisture retention and cushioning, excessive thatch can lead to a number of issues. It can prevent water and nutrients from penetrating into the soil, create a habitat for pests and diseases, and ultimately weaken the turfgrass.

Regularly managing thatch through practices such as aeration or vertical mowing helps to maintain the proper balance of organic matter, ensuring that the grass receives the moisture and nutrients it needs to thrive. This practice promotes healthy root development and improves overall turfgrass resilience, making it better equipped to handle stress from environmental factors such as drought or disease.

The other options do not support healthy turfgrass. Regular exposure to sunlight is beneficial, but it is not a practice; rather, it’s a condition that must be considered along with other factors. Excessive fertilization can lead to nutrient runoff and promote excessive growth that can weaken turf health. Frequent over-watering creates a saturated environment, increasing the risk of disease and root rot. Therefore, focusing on limiting that