4/14/2020 - By Dr. Raymond Snyder

The use of green pigments is most often associated with imparting enhanced color on turf. These pigments are typically utilized in conjunction with liquid foliar nutritionals, plant growth regulators or fungicide applications to provide improved green color on turf, or simply to provide a visual spray pattern indicator. But is there more to them than meets the eye?

In an effort to identify plant responses (if any) beyond the superficial effects of PAR® SG, we conducted a bentgrass putting green field study with Dr. Xunzhong Zhang at Virginia Tech University in the Summer of 2019. The overall goal was to determine the ideal application rate of PAR® SG for providing both above-ground color enhancement and below-ground rooting response. Although some level of color enhancement was expected, significant below-ground rooting response was not expected based on the industry’s knowledge of pigment plant responses at the time of the study.

In the study, bentgrass treated with fertility alone was compared to bentgrass treated with fertility & varying rates of PAR® SG. The results were quite revealing! At the conclusion of the 98-day trial, Dr. Zhang observed a statistically significant enhancement in leaf color and—more surprisingly—increased root length, root tips and root mass values when PAR® SG was applied at 5 oz/acre/week. So, although it’s easy to think of PAR® SG as a simple colorant, try not to judge this book by its cover. Keep in mind the additional benefits it can provide to your turf, particularly those observed below the surface. For more information on PAR® SG and other Harrell's products, contact your local Harrell's Representative.

Data and photos from the field study are included below for review.