Natural Resources Research Program. Plant Growth Regulators Evaluation for FiveCorps of Engineers Projects and One Military Installation

摘要

A 3-year demonstration of plant growth regulator (PGR) use on turfgrass wasconducted at 6 locations representing 3 cool-season and 3 warm-season areas. Demonstration objectives were to identify impacts of repeated PGR use on various turf species and to familiarize project personnel with PGR performance, application, and potential use. PGRs, applied at the recommended label rate, approximately one half that rate, and some in combination with each other, were evaluated for performance on several turfgrass species (depending on location). Products tested included Cutless, D-lay, Embark, Escort, Limit, Maintain, Oust, Poast, PP333, Roundup, Shortstop, and XE1019. Several PGR treatments were effective in suppressing grass growth at all locations, reducing mowing frequency by as much as 50%. Only one treatment, Oust (all rates applied), resulted in blue-grass turf deterioration at the Shenango Lake Project. No permanent, detrimental effects to turf quality, e.g., turf thinning or increased disease damage, were reported as a result of repeated PGR applications at any of the other sites. Soil residue data from all locations demonstrated that chemical decomposition was complete before each subsequent PGR application. General and specific recommendations for PGR use at all sites are provided. Bermuda grass; Bahia/centipede grass; Plant growth substances/inhibitors; Grounds maintenance; Kentucky bluegrass; Washington state/Iowa/Pennsylvania; Florida/Mississippi/Alabama; Tall fescue; Herbicides. (edc)