It's inevitable. Every summer, the central Georgia heat and humidity promote out-of-control grass (and weed) growth. It really seems like an impossible task to keep your property looking well-maintained during the summer months. Even if you do manage to keep up with the growth, you still have to deal with the mountains of clippings that pile up and drift across your sidewalks and driveways. Plus, you often feel guilty about inflating your carbon footprint with all the constant mowing.
Thankfully, there is a solution that won’t harm the environment. Plant growth regulators (PGRs) have been an important part of the professional turf and sports industry for a long time. But in recent years, due to ongoing improvements in safety, performance and availability, PGRs are gaining popularity in commercial and residential landscape management.
Originally used on golf courses and along roadsides and runways, plant growth regulators suppress grass and weed growth. This lets you mow less frequently, which saves time and labor costs. It also cuts way down on those pesky clippings.
There are three classifications of PGRs, based on their mode-of-action:
Cell Division Inhibitors (also called Type I PGRs) - They are absorbed by the foliage and inhibit both vegetative growth and seedhead development. They work rapidly to inhibit growth within 10 days, lasting 3-4 weeks.
Gibberellin Biosynthesis Inhibitors (also called Type II PGRs) - Gibberellin is a plant-based hormone needed for cell elongation and normal growth and development. When gibberellin production is inhibited, plant cells do not elongate, internodes become shortened and overall plant growth is reduced.
Herbicides – Used at low rates, various herbicides will slow growth or seedhead development of turfgrasses.
There are now dozens of PGRs with a wide array of functions. Importantly, they do not interfere with plant respiration, photosynthesis, or other internal functions. Depending on your particular needs, we can suggest an appropriate PGR for your property and propose a plan for optimum results.
Here are five important benefits of PGRs:
Take advantage of plant growth regulators and all of their benefits starting this summer. At T. Lake, we believe your investment in the beauty and functionality of your grounds is worth maintaining. Contact us today for more information on how to integrate PGRs into your overall landscaping design, plans, and needs.