ABSTRACT
Plant growth regulators (PGRs) are commonly used to improve quality and manage growth of bermudagrass (Cynodon sp.) fairways. However, their use has been limited to fully established bermudagrass and it remains unknown how they may affect alternate forms of growth or establishment. A glasshouse experiment was first conducted to investigate lateral development from PGR treated turf. Treatments included trinexapac-ethyl (TE) and paclobutrazol (PB), applied at 0.11 and 0.56 kg a.i. ha−1, respectively. Trinexapac-ethyl enhanced expansive lateral stem growth by 10–20%, presumably due to increased tiller production and shoot density. Paclobutrazol enhanced expansive growth up to 50% by compressing stolon length to the extent which they were no longer discernible from the existing canopy. Glasshouse results supported subsequent investigation of bermudagrass establishment in the field, for which the PGR ethephon (EP) was of additional interest. Results suggested either TE or EP might assist vegetative field establishment, whereas the soil activity of PB may inhibit this process. The impact of PGRs on establishment was more profound when irrigation was reduced 50% from well-watered conditions. Pending further investigation, results may prove useful for environmentally sound golf course development and renovation in tropical and subtropical climates.
