Q: What is Pythium Blight?
A: Pythium affects all turfgrass species, but cool-season varieties such as bentgrass are particularly vulnerable. It flourishes when the nights are warm (20ºC +) and the days are humid and hot. Turf is more susceptible to this fungus during extended periods of rain and lush growth following the application of nitrogen. Q: What’s the background to Chipco Signature’s development?
A: When various fungicides were evaluated for the control of summer diseases (principally Pythium and Brown Patch) on bentgrass golf greens in North and South Carolina a dramatic result was noticed when two fungicides were mixed (Aliette and Fore). The trials showed that turfgrass sprayed with the Aliette-Fore combination had increased vigour and quality; an unexpected benefit attributable to the fungicides’ pigment. The pigment technology has been studied in detail since that initial discovery and the benefits of using Chipco Signature (and Turf Shield Technology) on turf health have now become widely acknowledged in both academic and operational circles. Q: What is Turf Shield?
A: Turf Shield is an advanced formulation technology developed by Bayer Environmental Science that positively affects turf physiology. It helps turf-grass
to withstand heat and high light intensity. Q: How does Turf Shield work ?
A: Turf Shield protects photo-systems in chloroplasts. Radiation energy levels from sunlight are higher than chloroplasts actually need to convert light energy and fix carbon dioxide or utilise carbohydrate reserves by photorespiration. Excess radiation levels contribute to turf decline. Turf Shield filters damaging wavelengths of light to reduce intensity of electromagnetic radiation, keeping chloroplast thylakoid membranes healthy
and intact. Q: What does turf treated with Turf Shield look like?
A: Although you don’t see it, below the surface fungicides containing Turf Shield target roots
by controlling diseases, leading to increased
root mass and a stronger base for the plant
to grow. Above the surface, this concept
results in robust, lush top-growth. Fungicides containing Turf Shield are proven to produce
greener turf for a better-looking course, in addition to its improved health and vigour. Q: What are the overall benefits of using Chipco Signature with Turf Shield in a preventative program?
A: A healthier, greener, stress and disease-free course that is always in top condition for golfers.
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