Potential Health Benefits of Pigment-containing Products on Creeping Bentgrass and Hybrid Bermudagrass

Abstract

The objective of this research was to analyze the use of pigmented products in the management of heat stress on creeping bentgrass [Agrostis stolonifera L. var palustris (Huds.)] and low temperature stress on bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. × C. transvaalensis Burtt-Davy]. Studies utilized: zinc oxide (ZnO), green pigment + titanium dioxide (TiO2) (Turf Screen); Cu-based pigment (PAR); fosetyl-Al (Fosetyl-Al); fosetyl-Al + Cu-based pigment (Signature); potassium phosphite (KH2PO4) (Title Phyte); Turf Screen + Title Phyte; and, PAR + Title Phyte. Products were applied bi-weekly for 12 wk. Bentgrass canopy temperatures increased ~0.5 to 3°C, photosynthesis reduced ~6 to 20 µmol CO2 cm-2 s-1, and relative chlorophyll content decreased ~8.5% by treatments, while bermudagrass was unaffected. Bermudagrass field studies indicated reduced photosynthesis (~8 to 21 µmol CO2 cm-2 s-1) for Title Phyte, stressed control, and Turf Screen. Root mass was unaffected by treatments. Turf Screen alone and + Title Phyte increased Zn plant (~820 mg kg-1) and soil (4.75 kg ha-1) levels. PAR alone and + Title Phyte; and Turf Screen + Title Phyte increased tissue Cu ~27 mg kg-1. Overall, pigmented products promoted bentgrass heat stress and heavy metal accumulation but had minimum effect on bermudagrass turf performance.