U.S. patent application number 14/955735 was filed with the patent office on 2016-09-29 for plant growth regulation compositions and methods using gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitor combinations.
The applicant listed for this patent is SePRO Corporation. Invention is credited to Raymond B. Cooper, Roger Storey.
Application Number | 20160278377 14/955735 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34118452 |
Filed Date | 2016-09-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160278377 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Cooper; Raymond B. ; et
al. |
September 29, 2016 |
PLANT GROWTH REGULATION COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS USING GIBBERELLIN
BIOSYNTHESIS INHIBITOR COMBINATIONS
Abstract
Described are plant growth regulation compositions and methods
utilizing combinations of Class A and Class B gibberellin
biosynthesis inhibitors. Preferred methods and compositions involve
the combination of trinexapac-ethyl with either or both of
flurprimidol and paclobutrazol, in particular to provide a
synergistic effect in the regulation of the growth of
turfgrass.
Inventors: |
Cooper; Raymond B.; (Meigs,
GA) ; Storey; Roger; (Westfield, IN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SePRO Corporation |
Carmel |
IN |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
34118452 |
Appl. No.: |
14/955735 |
Filed: |
December 1, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12965516 |
Dec 10, 2010 |
9198417 |
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14955735 |
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11586919 |
Oct 26, 2006 |
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12965516 |
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10746902 |
Dec 26, 2003 |
7135435 |
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11586919 |
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60436909 |
Dec 27, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A01N 61/00 20130101;
A01N 61/00 20130101; A01N 37/42 20130101; A01N 37/08 20130101; A01N
37/42 20130101; A01N 43/653 20130101; A01N 37/42 20130101; A01N
43/56 20130101; A01N 43/54 20130101; A01N 43/40 20130101; A01N
43/54 20130101; A01N 2300/00 20130101; A01N 43/56 20130101; A01N
43/60 20130101; A01N 43/54 20130101; A01N 43/50 20130101; A01N
61/00 20130101; A01N 61/00 20130101; A01N 43/60 20130101; A01N
43/50 20130101; A01N 61/00 20130101; A01N 2300/00 20130101; A01N
43/40 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A01N 37/08 20060101
A01N037/08; A01N 43/54 20060101 A01N043/54; A01N 43/653 20060101
A01N043/653 |
Claims
1. A method for regulating plant growth, comprising: applying to a
plant a Class A gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitor; and applying to
the plant a Class B gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitor; wherein
said Class A and Class B gibberellin synthesis inhibitors exhibit
synergism in regulating growth of the plant.
2. A method according to claim 1, wherein: said Class A gibberellin
synthesis inhibitor is encompassed by the formula: ##STR00007##
wherein A is an --OR.sub.2 or --NR.sub.3R.sub.4 radical, R is
C.sub.3-C.sub.6 cycloalkyl, R.sub.2R.sub.3 and R.sub.4 are each
independently hydrogen, C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.6
haloalkyl, C.sub.2-C.sub.10 alkoxyalkyl, C.sub.2-C.sub.10
alkylthioalkyl, C.sub.3-C.sub.6 alkenyl, which is unsubstituted or
substituted by halogen, C.sub.1-C.sub.4 alkoxy or C.sub.1-C.sub.4
alkylthio; C.sub.3-C.sub.6 alkynyl; phenyl or C.sub.1-C.sub.6
aralkyl, wherein the phenyl nucleus is unsubstituted or substituted
by halogen, C.sub.1-C.sub.4 alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.4 alkoxy,
C.sub.1-C.sub.4 haloalkyl, nitro or cyano; one of R.sub.3 and
R.sub.4 is methoxy; or R.sub.3 and R.sub.4, together with the
nitrogen atom to which they are attached, form a 5- or 6-membered
heterocyclic ring system which may contain an additional oxygen or
sulfur atom in the ring; and the metal or ammonium salts
thereof.
3. A method according to claim 2, wherein the Class A gibberellin
synthesis inhibitor is trinexapac-ethyl.
4. A method according to claim 1, wherein the Class B gibberellin
synthesis inhibitor is encompassed by the formula: ##STR00008##
wherein R.sub.5 is alkenyl, alkynyl or optionally substituted
aralkyl; Y is .dbd.N-- or .dbd.CH--; R.sub.6 is cycloalkyl, alkyl
or haloalkyl; and R.sub.7 is hydrogen, methyl or alkenyl, or an
ester, an ether, an acid addition salt or a metal complex
thereof.
5. A method according to claim 4, wherein the Class B gibberellin
synthesis inhibitor is paclobutrazol.
6. A method according to claim 1, wherein: the Class B gibberellin
synthesis inhibitor is encompassed by the formula: ##STR00009##
wherein R.sub.8 is 2-pyrazinyl, 3-pyridyl, or 5-pyrimidinyl;
R.sub.9 is phenyl, pyridyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkyl, or
C.sub.3-C.sub.8 cycloalkyl; R.sub.10 is trifluoromethoxyphenyl,
tetrafluoroethoxyphenyl, pentafluoroethoxyphenyl,
3,4-(difluoromethylenedioxy)phenyl, or
2,2,4,4-tetrafluoro-1,3-benzodioxanyl; X is hydrogen, hydroxy,
lower alkoxy, lower alkylthio, or lower alkanoyloxy; or an acid
addition salt thereof.
7. A method according to claim 6, wherein the Class B gibberellin
synthesis inhibitor is flurprimidol.
8. A method according to claim 1, wherein the Class A and Class B
gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitors are applied together.
9. A method according to claim 1, wherein the Class A and Class B
gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitors are applied separately.
10. A method according to claim 1, wherein the plant is
turfgrass.
11. A method according to claim 10, wherein the Class A gibberellin
biosynthesis inhibitor is trinexepac-ethyl, and wherein the
trinexepac-ethyl is applied at a level of about 0.02 to about 0.7
pounds of active ingredient per acre.
12. A method according to claim 11, wherein the Class B gibberellin
biosynthesis inhibitor is flurprimidol, and wherein the
flurprimidol is applied at a level of about 0.05 to about 1.5
pounds of active ingredient per acre.
13. A method according to claim 11, wherein the Class B gibberellin
biosynthesis inhibitor is paclobutrazol, and wherein the
paclobutrazol is applied at a level of about 0.05 to 1.0 pounds of
active ingredient per acre.
14. A method according to claim 10, wherein the Class A and Class B
gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitors are applied together.
15. A method according to claim 10, wherein the Class A and Class B
gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitors are applied separately.
16. A method according to claim 14, wherein the turfgrass comprises
one or more grasses selected from as Bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum);
Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon); Buffalograss (Buchloe
dactyloides); Carpetgrass (Axonopus affinis); Centipedegrass
(Eremochloa ophiuroides); Kikuyugrass (Pennisetum cladestinum);
Seashore paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum); St. Augustinegrass
(Stenotaphrum secundatum); Zoysiagrass (Zoysia matrella
(japonica)); Annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum); Bentgrass
(Agrostis spp.); Fescue (Festuca spp.); Kentucky bluegrass (Poa
pratensis); Perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne); and Poa annua.
17. A method according to claim 14, wherein the turfgrass comprises
one or more grasses selected from Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon);
Annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum); Bentgrass (Agrostis spp);
Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis); and Perennial ryegrass (Lolium
perenne).
18. A composition for regulating plant growth, comprising: a Class
A gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitor; and a Class B gibberellin
biosynthesis inhibitor; wherein said biosynthesis inhibitors
exhibit synergism in the regulation of plant growth.
19. A composition according to claim 18, wherein: said Class A
gibberellin synthesis inhibitor is encompassed by the formula:
##STR00010## wherein A is an --OR.sub.2 or --NR.sub.3R.sub.4
radical, R is C.sub.3-C.sub.6 cycloalkyl, R.sub.2R.sub.3 and
R.sub.4 are each independently hydrogen, C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl,
C.sub.1-C.sub.6 haloalkyl, C.sub.2-C.sub.10 alkoxyalkyl,
C.sub.2-C.sub.10 alkylthioalkyl, C.sub.3-C.sub.6 alkenyl, which is
unsubstituted or substituted by halogen, C.sub.1-C.sub.4 alkoxy or
C.sub.1-C.sub.4 alkylthio; C.sub.3-C.sub.6 alkynyl; phenyl or
C.sub.1-C.sub.6 aralkyl, wherein the phenyl nucleus is
unsubstituted or substituted by halogen, C.sub.1-C.sub.4 alkyl,
C.sub.1-C.sub.4 alkoxy, C.sub.1-C.sub.4 haloalkyl, nitro or cyano;
one of R.sub.3 and R.sub.4 is methoxy; or R.sub.3 and R.sub.4,
together with the nitrogen atom to which they are attached, form a
5- or 6-membered heterocyclic ring system which may contain an
additional oxygen or sulfur atom in the ring; and the metal or
ammonium salts thereof.
20. A composition according to claim 18, wherein the Class A
gibberellin synthesis inhibitor is trinexapac-ethyl.
21-32. (canceled)
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/965,516, filed Dec. 10, 2010, pending,
which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
11/586,919, filed Oct. 26, 2006, abandoned, which is a continuation
of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/746,902, filed Dec. 26,
2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,135,435, which claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/436,909 filed Dec. 27,
2002, each of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in
their entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to plant growth
regulation, and in particular to plant growth regulation utilizing
combinations of active agents that each inhibit plant gibberellin
biosynthesis.
[0003] As further background, agents that accelerate or retard the
rate of growth of plants have been known and used in the field of
turfgrass and other plant management. Agents that retard or inhibit
shoot, stem and leaf elongation have traditionally been categorized
by four modes of action. A first mode involves the inhibition of
mitosis in the meristematic tissue which halts cell division and
elongation. A second mode involves a reduction of cell elongation
by inhibiting or retarding gibberellin synthesis, a plant hormone
needed for cell elongation. A third mode of action involves the
regulation of auxin activity and transport, and a fourth mode
involves killing terminal buds and thus reducing apical
dominance.
[0004] Gibberellin synthesis inhibitors are known which act at
different sites in the biosynthetic pathway of gibberellins. Agents
which act relatively late in the synthetic pathway are known as
Class A gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitors. The compounds
paclobutrazol and flurprimidol are known Class A gibberellin
biosynthesis inhibitors and are sold under the trade names of
Trimmit and Cutless, respectively. Class B gibberellin biosynthesis
inhibitors act relatively early in the gibberellin biosynthesis
pathway. Trinexapac-ethyl is one such Class B agent, and is sold
under the trade name Primo.
[0005] Growth regulation of turfgrass and other plants using high
application rates may result in a significant waste of material,
increased cost of application, and the discharge of excess plant
growth regulator chemistry into the surrounding environment.
[0006] Gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitors have been used
individually for some time in the management of turfgrasses such as
those occurring on golf courses. Nonetheless, there remain needs
for improved turfgrass and other plant management aspects which
provide more effective results and/or which require lesser amounts
of active agents. The present invention is addressed to these
needs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] It has now been discovered that the use of gibberellin
biosynthesis inhibitors applied in combination can provide more
effective and efficient regulation of the growth of plants
including turfgrass. This includes the provision of synergistic
combinations of gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitors, and in
particular the use of at least one Class A gibberellin biosynthesis
inhibitor along with at least one Class B gibberellin biosynthesis
inhibitor to achieve effective regulation of the growth of
turfgrass or other plants.
[0008] In one embodiment of the invention, provided is a method for
regulating the growth of a plant, and especially a turfgrass, which
comprises applying to the plant a Class A gibberellin biosynthesis
inhibitor and applying to the plant a Class B gibberellin
biosynthesis inhibitor, especially wherein the inhibitors exhibit
synergism in regulating growth of the plant. Preferred Class A
gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitors are encompassed by the
formula:
##STR00001##
[0009] wherein
[0010] A is an --OR.sub.2 or --NR.sub.3R.sub.4 radical,
[0011] R is C.sub.3-C.sub.6 cycloalkyl,
[0012] R.sub.2R.sub.3 and R.sub.4 are each independently hydrogen,
C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.6 haloalkyl, C.sub.2-C.sub.10
alkoxyalkyl, C.sub.2-C.sub.10 alkylthioalkyl, C.sub.3-C.sub.6
alkenyl, which is unsubstituted or substituted by halogen,
C.sub.1-C.sub.4 alkoxy or C.sub.1-C.sub.4 alkylthio;
C.sub.3-C.sub.6 alkynyl; phenyl or C.sub.1-C.sub.6 aralkyl, wherein
the phenyl nucleus is unsubstituted or substituted by halogen,
C.sub.1-C.sub.4 alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.4 alkoxy,
[0013] C.sub.1-C.sub.4 haloalkyl, nitro or cyano; one of R.sub.3
and R.sub.4 is methoxy; or
[0014] R.sub.3 and R.sub.4, together with the nitrogen atom to
which they are attached, form a 5- or 6-membered heterocyclic ring
system which may contain an additional oxygen or sulfur atom in the
ring; and the metal or ammonium salts thereof. A particularly
preferred such inhibitor is trinexapac-ethyl.
[0015] Some preferred Class B gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitors
are encompassed by the formula:
##STR00002##
[0016] wherein
[0017] R.sub.8 is 2-pyrazinyl, 3-pyridyl, or 5-pyrimidinyl;
[0018] R.sub.9 is phenyl, pyridyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkyl, or
C.sub.3-C.sub.8 cycloalkyl;
[0019] R.sub.10 is trifluoromethoxyphenyl, tetrafluoroethoxyphenyl,
pentafluoroethoxyphenyl, 3,4-(difluoromethylenedioxy)phenyl, or
2,2,4,4-tetrafluoro-1,3-benzodioxanyl;
[0020] X is hydrogen, hydroxy, lower alkoxy, lower alkylthio, or
lower alkanoyloxy;
[0021] or an acid addition salt thereof. A particularly preferred
such inhibitor is flurprimidol. Additional Class B gibberellin
biosynthesis inhibitors which may be used are encompassed by the
formula:
##STR00003##
wherein R.sub.5 is alkenyl, alkynyl or optionally substituted
aralkyl;
Y is .dbd.N-- or .dbd.CH--;
[0022] R.sub.6 is cycloalkyl, alkyl or haloalkyl; and R.sub.7 is
hydrogen, methyl or alkenyl, or an ester, an ether, an acid
addition salt or a metal complex thereof. A particularly preferred
such inhibitor is paclobutrazol.
[0023] In accordance with methods of the invention, the Class A and
Class B inhibitors can be applied simultaneously to plants such as
turfgrass, for example in a single tank mix; alternatively, the
Class A and Class B inhibitors can be applied separately to the
turfgrass or other plant, for example in rotation.
[0024] Another embodiment of the invention provides a composition
for regulating plant growth that includes both a Class A
gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitor and a Class B gibberellin
biosynthesis inhibitor. In preferred embodiments the inhibitor
combination exhibits synergism in the regulation of plant growth
and especially in the regulation of turfgrass growth. Particular
agents within Class A and Class B include those within the formulas
noted above, and those specifically named above.
[0025] The present invention provides improved methods and
compositions for regulating plant growth using combinations of
gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitors. Additional embodiments as well
as features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from
the descriptions herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0026] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the
principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the
embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will
be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood
that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby
intended, and alterations and modifications in the illustrated
device, and further applications of the principles of the invention
as illustrated therein are herein contemplated as would normally
occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.
[0027] As disclosed above, the present invention provides methods
and compositions for regulating plant growth that involve the use
of a combination of gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitors. Particular
embodiments involve the use of Class A and Class B gibberellin
biosynthesis inhibitors, for example including the use of
trinexapac-ethyl as a Class A inhibitor, and the use of
flurprimidol and/or paclobutrazol as a Class B gibberellin
biosynthesis inhibitor.
[0028] Methods and compositions of the invention employ at least
one Class A gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitor. This class of
inhibitors is known to those skilled in the art, and includes
compounds which act at a late stage in the biosynthetic pathway of
gibberellins, for example preventing the conversion of GA.sub.20 to
GA.sub.1. Trinexapac-ethyl and related compounds can be used to
provide the Class A gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitor. Class A
inhibitors which may be used in the invention thus are encompassed
by formula:
##STR00004##
[0029] wherein
[0030] A is an --OR.sub.2 or --NR.sub.3R.sub.4 radical,
[0031] R is C.sub.3-C.sub.6 cycloalkyl,
[0032] R.sub.2R.sub.3 and R.sub.4 are each independently hydrogen,
C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.6 haloalkyl, C.sub.2-C.sub.10
alkoxyalkyl, C.sub.2-C.sub.10 alkylthioalkyl, C.sub.3-C.sub.6
alkenyl, which is unsubstituted or substituted by halogen,
C.sub.1-4 alkoxy or C.sub.1-C.sub.4 alkylthio; C.sub.3-C.sub.6
alkynyl; phenyl or C.sub.1-C.sub.6 aralkyl, wherein the phenyl
nucleus is unsubstituted or substituted by halogen, C.sub.1-C.sub.4
alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.4 alkoxy,
[0033] C.sub.1-C.sub.4 haloalkyl, nitro or cyano; one of R.sub.3
and R.sub.4 is methoxy; or
[0034] R.sub.3 and R.sub.4, together with the nitrogen atom to
which they are attached, form a 5- or 6-membered heterocyclic ring
system which may contain an additional oxygen or sulfur atom in the
ring; and the metal or ammonium salts thereof.
[0035] Trinexapac and its C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl esters, including
for example trinexapac-ethyl, are particularly preferred agents
from this class.
[0036] Class B gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitors are also known
to those skilled in the art and include compounds that act early in
the biosynthetic pathway of gibberellins. For example, Class B
inhibitors are known which interfere with the biosynthesis of
gibberellic acid before the production of the first gibberellic
acid compound, GA.sub.12. GA.sub.12 is not only the first GA
produced but is also a precursor for all other GAs. This in effect
means that GA production may be substantially slowed by the use of
such Class B gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitors. A group of such
inhibitors is encompassed by the formula:
##STR00005##
wherein R.sub.5 is alkenyl, alkynyl or optionally substituted
aralkyl;
Y is .dbd.N-- or .dbd.CH--;
[0037] R.sub.6 is cycloalkyl, alkyl or haloalkyl; and R.sub.7 is
hydrogen, methyl or alkenyl, or an ester, an ether, an acid
addition salt or a metal complex thereof.
[0038] Another group of Class B gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitors
is encompassed by the formula:
##STR00006##
[0039] wherein
[0040] R.sub.8 is 2-pyrazinyl, 3-pyridyl, or 5-pyrimidinyl;
[0041] R.sub.9 is phenyl, pyridyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkyl, or
C.sub.3-C.sub.8 cycloalkyl;
[0042] R.sub.10 is trifluoromethoxyphenyl, tetrafluoroethoxyphenyl,
pentafluoroethoxyphenyl, 3,4-(difluoromethylenedioxy)phenyl, or
2,2,4,4-tetrafluoro-1,3-benzodioxanyl;
[0043] X is hydrogen, hydroxy, lower alkoxy, lower alkylthio, or
lower alkanoyloxy;
[0044] or an acid addition salt thereof.
[0045] In accordance with the invention, the Class A and Class B
gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitors can be used together, for
example in a tank mix, or can be used separately, for example
applied separately on the same date or in rotation over time. When
used together, the inhibitor combination can be present in a
composition in which they are combined at effective concentrations
and in effective ratios to achieve plant growth regulation.
Generally, the Class A and Class B plant growth regulators will be
present in a molar ratio of about 1:0.625 to about 1:5 with respect
to one another.
[0046] Preferably the amounts and molar ratios utilized will
provide an identifiable synergism among the compounds and the
regulation of plant growth, in particular in the regulation of
turfgrass growth. In the case of turfgrass, this synergism may be
evident in relative improvements in turf color, turf density,
reduced turf scalping, growth inhibition, and/or turf quality, at
any time point after application of the plant growth regulators.
These turf characteristics are known and used by those skilled in
the art in managing turfgrass, for example turfgrass occurring on
golf courses and in particular on the fairways, putting greens and
driving tees of golf courses which are maintained at relatively
short lengths such as 2 inches or less, with fairways more
typically being maintained at about 0.5 inch to about 1 inch, and
putting greens typically being maintained at about 0.1 inch to 0.2
inch, and driving tees more typically being maintained at about 0.2
inch to 0.5 inch. In one feature of the invention, it has been
discovered that the combination of a Class A and Class B inhibitor
can provide a more rapid regulation of turfgrass growth and a
consequent more rapid improvement in turf quality than either
inhibitor applied alone at twice the rate of the combination. Thus,
a decreased time interval is provided between application of the
growth regulators and the achievement of substantial improvements
in desirable turf characteristics.
[0047] The Class A and Class B inhibitors will be included in
compositions at a level or concentration suitable for direct
application to the turfgrass or other plant from conventional
spraying equipment, or suitable for dilution to prepare such a
composition for direct application. Plant growth regulator
concentrates of the invention may for example include the Class A
and Class B inhibitors each at a level of about 0.5 pounds per
gallon to about 4 pounds per gallon in the case of liquid
concentrate formulations or about 25% to 80% active ingredient in
the case of dry concentrate formulations. Such a concentrate can
then be diluted with water or another solvent by a user for
application to the turfgrass or other plant. The as-applied
composition will contain the plant growth regulator(s) at a
concentration or level suitable for application to the turfgrass or
other plants. This may vary widely depending upon the type of spray
equipment being used, and the mechanism(s) of absorption for the
regulator molecule. For example, root-absorbed growth regulators
such as paclobutrazol and flurprimidol are usually applied in
relatively high volume spray systems, and thus can be included in
as-applied liquid at relatively low concentrations. Foliar-absorbed
growth regulators such as trinexapac-ethyl may be applied in
relatively low volume spray systems to minimize run off from the
foliage, and thus may be commonly included in the as-applied liquid
at relatively higher concentrations. When applying a combination of
a root-absorbed (paclobutrazol or flurprimidol) and a
foliar-absorbed regulator (trinexapac-ethyl), strategies may be
adopted to facilitate effective uptake of the chemicals. For
example, the two growth regulators may be applied separately under
conditions conducive to their mode of uptake. On the other hand,
they may also be applied together while achieving suitable uptake
of each. For example, in one mode of application, the root-absorbed
and foliar-absorbed regulators can be applied together with a
low-volume spray system, to minimize run-off and allow for the
foliar uptake of the foliar-absorbed regulator. After a residence
time, e.g. 2 to about 24 hours, the turfgrass or other plant area
can then be watered, to move the root-absorbed regulator to the
plant roots for absorption. These and other suitable modes of
application of the growth regulator combination will be apparent to
those skilled in the art given the teachings herein.
[0048] As to application rate, this will vary depending on the
plant to be treated and suitable application rates for plant growth
regulators are used herein or can be determined using routine
experimentation. Generally, when treating turfgrass, the Class A
gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitor, such as trinexapac-ethyl, will
be applied at a rate about 0.02 to about 0.7 pounds of active
ingredient per acre. Class B gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitors
will generally be applied at a rate of about 0.05 to about 1.5
pounds of active ingredient per acre. For example, flurprimidol
will typically be applied at a rate in the range of about 0.05 to
about 1.5 pounds of active ingredient per acre, and paclobutrazol
will typically be applied at a rate in the range of about 0.05 to
about 1.0 pounds of active ingredient per acre. These rates may be
used when applying the inhibitors separately (e.g. in rotation) or
when applying the inhibitors together. When applying the inhibitors
in rotation, it will desirable to apply the two inhibitors within
about four weeks of one another, although shorter or longer times
may also be used within the scope of the present invention. In one
mode of operation, the two active ingredients can be applied at
times and under conditions wherein effective growth regulating
amounts of each are present in the plant.
[0049] Turfgrass species that can be growth regulated in accordance
with the invention include, for example, warm-season species such
as Bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum); Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon);
Buffalograss (Buchloe dactyloides); Carpetgrass (Axonopus affinis);
Centipedegrass (Eremochloa ophiuroides); Kikuyugrass (Pennisetum
cladestinum); Seashore paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum); St.
Augustinegrass (Stenotaphrum secundatum); Zoysiagrass (Zoysia
matrella (japonica)); cool-season species such as Annual ryegrass
(Lolium multiflorum); Bentgrass (Agrostis spp.); Fescue (Festuca
spp.); Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis); Perennial ryegrass
(Lolium perenne); Bentgrass/Poa annua mixtures; Kentucky
bluegrass/Fescue/Ryegrass mixtures; and Kentucky
bluegrass/ryegrass/Poa annua mixtures. Preferred turfgrasses to be
controlled in the invention include Bermudagrass (Cynodon
dactylon); Annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum); Bentgrass
(Agrostis spp.); Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis); and Perennial
ryegrass (Lolium perenne).
[0050] Gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitors used in the invention
can be combined with suitable liquid carriers to form liquid
compositions. Any suitable carrier may be used, including those
consisting essentially of water, or those including liquid
fertilizer, or mixtures thereof. Water or other aqueous carriers
are preferred.
[0051] Additional formulation adjuvants can be present as is
conventional in the field. Typically, these will be included at
levels up to about 30 percent by weight of the composition, more
often at levels not exceeding about 20 percent by weight of the
composition. Such adjuvants may for example include one or more
surface-active agents. Potential surface active agents include the
alkali, alkaline earth and ammonium salts of aromatic sulfonic
acids, such as lignin-, phenol-, naphthalene-, and
dibutylnaphthalenesulfonic acid, as well as those of fatty acids,
alkyl and alkylaryl sulfonates, alkyllaurel ether and fatty alcohol
sulfates, and salts of sulfated hexa-, hepta- and octadecanols or
fatty alcohol glycol ethers, condensation products of sulfonated
naphthalene and its derivatives with formaldehyde, condensation
products of naphthalene or naphthalenesulfonic acids with phenol
and formaldehyde, polyoxyethylene octyl phenol ether, ethoxylated
isooctyl, octyl or nonylphenol, alkylphenol or tributylphenyl
polyglycol ether, alkylaryl polyether alcohols, isotridecyl
alcohol, fatty alcohol ethylene oxide condensates, ethoxylated
castor oil, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether or polyoxypropylene, lauryl
alcohol polyglycol ether acetate, sorbitol ester, lignin sulfite
waste liquors, or methylcellulose. The resulting liquid formulation
may be a solution, suspension, emulsion (including microemulsions),
or any other suitable form known in the art.
[0052] For the purpose of promoting a further understanding of the
present invention and its features and advantages, the following
specific Examples are provided. It will be understood that these
Examples are illustrative, and not limiting, of the invention.
Example 1
[0053] Tifsport Bermudagrass growing on a nursery area in South
Carolina was treated with Cutless 50W (Cutless) and Primo Maxx 1EC
(Primo) either singly or tank mixed to determine growth regulator
activity. Cutless 50W is a commercially available product
containing flurprimidol. Primo Maxx is a commercially available
product containing trinexapac-ethyl. Primo was applied alone at
0.05 and 0.1 pound of active ingredient per acre (LB AI/A), Cutless
was applied alone at 0.125 and 0.25 LB AI/A, and Primo+Cutless were
applied at 0.05+0.125 and 0.1+0.25 LB AI/A. Plot size was
6'.times.12' with four replications. Three applications with a
CO.sub.2 back-pack sprayer were made, occurring on May 29, June 27
and July 29. Plots received approximately 0.25 inches of irrigation
on each treatment date within 8 hours but not sooner than 4 hours
after treatment. Ratings to evaluate performance included injury
(0-10 with 0=No injury, 10=Death), color (plus or minus 100 with
100=Color of untreated, plus 100=Darker green than untreated, minus
100=Lighter green than untreated), density (0-10 with 0=Bare
ground, 10=Maximum potential density), quality (0-9 with 0=Poor
quality, 9=Maximum potential quality), growth inhibition
(percentage estimated), and scalping (percentage estimated). The
results are presented in Tables 1A and 1B.
TABLE-US-00001 Evaluation Date Evaluation Type* Eval Unit/Scale*
Trt-Eval Interval Footnote No. PRM Data Type* Trt Appl Treatment
Form Fm Ra Timing/ No Code Name* Conc Ds* Rate Un* Dev Stg 1 A
PRIMO 1 EC 0.05 LB AI/A JUNE A CUTLESS 50 WP 0.125 LB AI/A JUNE B
PRIMO 1 EC 0.05 LB AI/A JULY B CUTLESS 50 WP 0.125 LB AI/A JULY C
PRIMO 1 EC 0.05 LB AI/A AUGUST C CUTLESS 50 WP 0.125 LB AI/A AUGUST
2 A PRIMO 1 EC 0.1 LB AI/A JUNE A CUTLESS 50 WP 0.25 LB AI/A JUNE B
PRIMO 1 EC 0.1 LB AI/A JULY B CUTLESS 50 WP 0.25 LB AI/A JULY C
PRIMO 1 EC 0.1 LB AI/A AUGUST C CUTLESS 50 WP 0.25 LB AI/A AUGUST 3
A PRIMO 1 EC 0.05 LB AI/A JUNE B PRIMO 1 EC 0.05 LB AI/A JULY C
PRIMO 1 EC 0.05 LB AI/A AUGUST 4 A PRIMO 1 EC 0.1 LB AI/A JUNE B
PRIMO 1 EC 0.1 LB AI/A JULY C PRIMO 1 EC 0.1 LB AI/A AUGUST 5 A
CUTLESS 50 WP 0.125 LB AI/A JUNE B CUTLESS 50 WP 0.125 LB AI/A JULY
C CUTLESS 50 WP 0.125 LB AI/A AUGUST 6 A CUTLESS 50 WP 0.25 LB AI/A
JUNE B CUTLESS 50 WP 0.25 LB AI/A JULY C CUTLESS 50 WP 0.25 LB AI/A
AUGUST 70 UNTREATED LSD (P = .05) CV Replicate F Replicate Prob (F)
Treatment F Treatment Prob (F)
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 1 13Jun02 13Jun02 13Jun02 13Jun02 20Jun02
20Jun02 20Jun02 27Jun02 27Jun02 27Jun02 09Jul02 COLOR DENS QUAL CUT
COLOR DENS QUAL COLOR DENS QUAL COLOR % VI- 0-10SCAL 0-9SCAL % VI-
% VI- 0-10SCAL 0-9SCAL % VI- 0-10SCAL 0-9SCAL % VI- SUAL SUAL SUAL
SUAL SUAL 15DAAA 15DAAA 15DAAA 15DAAA 22DAAA 15DAAA 15DAAA 29DAAA
29DAAA 29DAAA 29DAAA 2 3 4 5 2 3 4 2 3 4 2 A C A P A C A A C A A
117.5 ab 9.13 ab 8.50 a 6.3 d 117.5 ab 9.1 8.4 102.5 8.1 8.0 125.0
122.5 a 9.63 a 7.88 a 2.5 d 122.5 a 9.9 8.8 118.8 9.6 8.9 132.5
100.0 d 6.88 e 6.13 b 57.5 a 101.3 c 7.4 6.9 98.8 7.3 7.1 105.0
108.8 c 8.00 cd 7.50 ab 35.0 bc 111.3 b 8.4 7.8 105.0 8.1 7.5 111.3
106.3 cd 7.75 d 7.38 ab 20.0 cd 101.3 c 7.6 7.3 100.0 7.3 7.1 105.0
115.0 b 8.63 bc 8.07 a 11.3 d 111.3 b 8.4 7.6 108.8 8.5 7.9 116.3
100.0 d 6.25 e 6.00 b 47.5 ab 100.0 c 6.4 6.1 100.0 7.3 7.1 100.0
6.15 0.772 1.449 17.87 6.31 0.789 0.587 3.74 0.504 0.456 2.61 3.77
6.46 13.27 46.79 3.89 6.5 5.23 2.4 4.23 4.01 1.54 1.526 0.485 0.077
.sup. 1.398 0.923 0.877 4.935 0.891 3.595 0.853 0.774 0.2419 0.6967
0.9718 .sup. 0.2757 0.4497 0.4715 0.0113 0.4649 0.0340 0.4833
0.5235 17.601 21.441 3.836 12.578 17.176 19.056 20.099 31.313
26.690 17.842 180.484 0.0001 0.0001 0.0122 .sup. 0.0001 0.0001
0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 09Jul02 09Jul02 09Jul02
29JU102 29Jul02 29Jul02 29Jul02 29Jul02 29Jul02 14Aug02 14Aug02
14Aug02 DENS QUAL CUT COLOR DENS QUAL GRINHIB CUT COLOR DENS QUAL
GRINHIB 0-10SCAL 0-9SCAL % VI- % VI- 0-10SCAL 0-9SCAL % VI- % VI- %
VI- % VI- 0-9SCAL % VI- SUAL SUAL SUAL SUAL SUAL SUAL SUAL 29DAAA
29DAAA 12DAAA 32DAAA 32DAAA 32DAAA 32DAAA 32DAAA 32DAAA 16DAAA
16DAAA 16DAAA 3 4 5 2 3 4 5 5 5 2 3 5 C A P A C A P P P A C P 10.0
9.0 0.0 107.5 7.6 7.4 13.8 13.8 125.0 9.8 8.8 15.0 10.0 9.0 0.0
119.5 9.5 8.6 28.8 0.0 120.0 9.1 8.4 21.3 7.5 7.1 15.0 98.8 6.3 5.8
0.0 25.0 103.8 7.6 7.3 3.8 8.3 7.8 5.0 101.3 6.5 5.9 5.0 21.3 108.8
8.1 7.8 8.8 7.5 7.1 7.5 100.0 7.1 6.5 3.8 11.3 105.0 7.6 7.3 6.3
8.9 8.1 0.0 110.0 7.6 7.1 10.0 6.3 110.0 8.0 7.5 15.0 6.5 5.9 40.0
100.0 5.6 5.3 0.0 36.3 100.0 6.6 6.3 0.0 0.456 0.310 10.59 8.58
0.855 0.802 6.38 10.58 10.58 6.12 0.619 5.58 3.67 2.71 73.91 5.48
8.02 8.13 49.09 43.82 43.82 3.73 5.49 37.53 0.853 1.636 1.383 1.254
1.042 0.571 1.339 3.164 3.164 0.632 0.600 0.507 0.4833 0.2162
0.2801 0.3197 0.3979 0.6410 0.2931 0.0498 0.0498 0.6041 0.6233
0.6824 74.937 115.364 16.477 6.880 19.168 18.388 22.355 11.795
11.795 19.246 15.446 15.676 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0006 0.0001
0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001
[0054] Evaluations made 13 days after the May 29 application showed
significantly (P=0.05, Duncan's New MRT), better color, density and
scalping reduction with Primo+Cutless tank mixed at 0.05+0.125 LB
AI/A than Primo alone at 0.1 LB AI/A. There was no significant
difference between Cutless applied alone at 0.25 LB AI/A and the
tank mix on this observation date. By 29 days after the first
application, (data not in table) the difference noted above had
disappeared and the low rate tank mix treatment was not superior to
either material applied alone at two times (2.times.) the
respective tank mix rates.
[0055] By 12 days after the June 27 application, (data not in
table) the low rate tank mix gave significantly better color,
density and quality compared with either material applied alone at
2.times. the respective tank mix rates. The tank mix treatment
continued to show better density, quality and overall growth
inhibition compared with Primo alone at 0.1 LB AI/A 32 days after
the second application. Cutless at 0.25 LB AI/A performed similar
to the low rate tank mix on this date.
[0056] Ratings 16 days after the July 29 application (data not in
table) showed that the low rate tank mix provided significantly
better color, density and quality than either Cutless or Primo
applied alone at 2.times. the respective tank mix rates.
[0057] In summary, Primo+Cutless applied to Tifsport Bermudagrass
at 0.05+0.125 LB AI/A provided significantly better turf color,
density and quality than either material applied alone at 2.times.
the respective tank mix rates (Primo 0.1, Cutless 0.25 LB AI/A) in
ratings made 12 to 16 days after application. Differences between
tank mix and single treatments largely disappeared by 29 to 32 days
after application. This trial indicates that tank mix applications
of Primo+Cutless at rates substantially lower than those
recommended for either material applied alone will provide good
turfgrass color, density and quality, and lead to more rapid
regulation and improvement of the turfgrass than either active
ingredient applied alone at 2.times. the respective tank mix
rates.
Example 2
[0058] Tifway (419) Bermudagrass growing under fairway conditions
in South Carolina was treated with Cutless 50W and Primo Maxx 1EC
either singly or tank mixed to determine growth regulator activity.
Primo was applied alone at 0.05 and 0.1 LB AI/A, Cutless was
applied alone at 0.125 and 0.25 LB AI/A, and Primo+Cutless were
applied at 0.05+0.125 and 0.1+0.25 LB AI/A. Plot size was
6'.times.12' with four replications. Three applications with a
CO.sub.2 back-pack sprayer were made, occurring on May 29, June 27
and July 29. Plots received approximately 0.25 inches of irrigation
on each treatment date within 8 hours but not sooner than 4 hours
after treatment. Ratings to evaluate performance have included
injury (0-10 with 0=No injury, 10=Death), color (plus or minus 100
with 100=Color of untreated, plus 100=Darker green than untreated,
minus 100=Lighter green than untreated), density (0-10 with 0=Bare
ground, 10=Maximum potential density), quality (0-9 with 0=Poor
quality, 9=Maximum potential quality), growth inhibition
(percentage estimated), and scalping (percentage estimated). The
results are presented in Table 2 below.
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 2 Evaluation Date 9 Jun. 2002 9 Jun. 2002 9
Jun. 2002 9 Jun. 2002 14 Jun. 2002 Evaluation Type* COLOR TURFDENS
TURFQUAL CUT COLOR Eval Unit/Scale* % VISUAL 0-10SCAL 0-9SCAL %
VISUAL % VISUAL Trt-Eval Interval 11DAAA 11DAAA 11DAAA 11DAAA
16DAAA Footnote No. 2 3 4 5 2 PRM Data Type* A C A P A Trt Appl
Treatment Form Fm Ra Timing/ No Code Name* Conc Ds* Rate Un* Dev
Stg 1 A PRIMO 1 EC 0.05 LB AI/A JUNE 98.8 a 10.00 a 8.75 a 0.0 a
116.3 a A CUTLESS 50 WP 0.125 LB AI/A JUNE B PRIMO 1 EC 0.05 LB
AI/A JULY B CUTLESS 50 WP 0.125 LB AI/A JULY C PRIMO 1 EC 0.05 LB
AI/A AUGUST C CUTLESS 50 WP 0.125 LB AI/A AUGUST 2 A PRIMO 1 EC 0.1
LB AI/A JUNE 99.0 a 9.95 a 8.88 a 0.0 a 120.0 a A CUTLESS 50 WP
0.25 LB AI/A JUNE B PRIMO 1 EC 0.1 LB AI/A JULY B CUTLESS 50 WP
0.25 LB AI/A JULY C PRIMO 1 EC 0.1 LB AI/A AUGUST C CUTLESS 50 WP
0.25 LB AI/A AUGUST 3 A PRIMO 1 EC 0.05 LB AI/A JUNE 97.5 ab 9.75 a
8.68 a 0.0 a 102.5 bc B PRIMO 1 EC 0.05 LB AI/A JULY C PRIMO 1 EC
0.05 LB AI/A AUGUST 4 A PRIMO 1 EC 0.1 LB AI/A JUNE 93.3 b 9.75 a
8.38 a 0.0 a 115.0 a B PRIMO 1 EC 0.1 LB AI/A JULY C PRIMO 1 EC 0.1
LB AI/A AUGUST 5 A CUTLESS 50 WP 0.125 LB AI/A JUNE 98.8 a 9.70 a
8.80 a 0.0 a 107.5 b B CUTLESS 50 WP 0.125 LB AI/A JULY C CUTLESS
50 WP 0.125 LB AI/A AUGUST 6 A CUTLESS 50 WP 0.25 LB AI/A JUNE 99.5
a 9.88 a 8.80 a 0.0 a 118.8 a B CUTLESS 50 WP 0.25 LB AI/A JULY C
CUTLESS 50 WP 0.25 LB AI/A AUGUST 7 UNTREATED 100.0 a 9.63 a 8.63 a
0.0 a 100.0 c LSD (P = .05) 4.80 0.360 0.461 0.00 .sup. 5.94 CV 3.3
2.47.sup. 3.57.sup. 0.0.sup. .sup. 3.59 Replicate F .sup. 0.896
2.990 0.356 0.000 1.043 Replicate Prob (F) 0.4622 0.0584 0.7854
.sup. 1.0000 0.3973 Treatment F .sup. 1.984 1.286 1.140 0.000
16.230 Treatment Prob (F) 0.1215 0.3127 0.3794 .sup. 1.0000
0.0001
[0059] Evaluations 11 and 16 days after the May 29 application
showed no significant differences (P=0.05, Duncan's New MRT) in
color, density, quality and scalping reduction with Primo+Cutless
tank mixed at 0.05+0.125 LB AI/A than with Primo or Cutless alone
at 0.1 and 0.25 LB AI/A, respectively. There was no significant
difference between Cutless applied alone at 0.25 LB AI/A and the
tank mix on this observation date. Likewise, no differences were
noted 29 days after the first applications.
[0060] By 13 days after the June 27 application, (data not in
table) the low rate tank mix gave significantly better color,
density and quality compared with Primo applied alone at 2.times.
the tank mix rate. This tank mix rate also gave better color and
density than Cutless applied alone at an 0.25 LB AI/A. Differences
between the low rate tank mix and the materials applied alone at
2.times. the respective tank mix rates had largely disappeared by
32 days after the second application. (data not in table)
[0061] In summary, Primo+Cutless applied to Tifway (419)
Bermudagrass at 0.05+0.125 provided significantly better turf
color, density and quality than either material applied alone at
2.times. the respective tank mix rates (Primo 0.1, Cutless 0.25 LB
AI/A) in selected ratings made 13 days after application.
Differences between tank mix and single treatments largely
disappeared by 29 to 32 days after application. This trial
indicates that tank mix applications of Primo+Cutless at rates
substantially lower than those recommended for either material
applied alone will provide a relatively rapid improvement and good
turfgrass color, density and quality.
Example 3
[0062] Tifway (419) Bermudagrass growing on a nursery area in South
Carolina was treated with Cutless 50W and Primo Maxx 1EC either
singly or tank mixed to determine growth regulator activity. Primo
was applied alone at 0.05 and 0.1 LB AI/A, Cutless was applied
alone at 0.125 and 0.25 LB AI/A, and Primo+Cutless were applied at
0.05+0.125 and 0.1+0.25 LB AI/A. Plot size was 6'.times.12' with
four replications. Two applications with a CO.sub.2 back-pack
sprayer were made, occurring on June 13 and July 9. Plots received
approximately 0.25 inches or irrigation on each treatment date
within 8 hours but not sooner than 4 hours after treatment. Ratings
to evaluate performance have included injury (0-10 with 0=No
injury, 10=Death), color (plus or minus 100 with 100=Color of
untreated, plus 100=Darker green than untreated, minus 100=Lighter
green than untreated), density (0-10 with 0=Bare ground, 10=Maximum
potential density), quality (0-9 with 0=Poor quality, 9=Maximum
potential quality), growth inhibition (percentage estimated), and
scalping (percentage estimated). The results are presented in Table
3 below.
TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 3 Evaluation Date 20 Jun. 2002 27 Jun. 2002 27
Jun. 2002 27 Jun. 2002 27 Jun. 2002 Evaluation Type* COLOR COLOR
TURFDENS TURFQUAL GROINHIB Eval Unit/Scale* % VISUAL % VISUAL
0-10SCAL 0-9 SCAL % VISUAL Trt-Eval Interval 7DAAA 14DAAA 14DAAA
14DAAA 14DAAA Footnote No. 2 2 3 4 5 PRM Data Type* A A C A P Trt
Appl Treatment Form Fm Ra Timing/ No Code Name* Conc Ds* Rate Un*
Dev Stg 1 A PRIMO 1 EC 0.05 LB AI/A JUNE 92.5 bc 121.3 a 9.88 a
9.00 a 45.0 a A CUTLESS 50 WP 0.125 LB AI/A JUNE B PRIMO 1 EC 0.05
LB AI/A JULY B CUTLESS 50 WP 0.125 LB AI/A JULY 2 A PRIMO 1 EC 0.1
LB AI/A JUNE 77.5 d 120.0 a 9.38 ab 8.63 a 50.0 a A CUTLESS 50 WP
0.25 LB AI/A JUNE B PRIMO 1 EC 0.1 LB AI/A JULY B CUTLESS 50 WP
0.25 LB AI/A JULY 3 A PRIMO 1 EC 0.05 LB AI/A JUNE 98.8 a 105.0 d
7.88 d 7.25 c 8.8 c B PRIMO 1 EC 0.05 LB AI/A JULY 4 A PRIMO 1 EC
0.1 LB AI/A JUNE 87.5 c 111.3 c 8.75 bc 8.00 b 26.3 b B PRIMO 1 EC
0.1 LB AI/A JULY 5 A CUTLESS 50 WP 0.125 LB AI/A JUNE 98.8 a 105.0
d 8.13 cd 7.38 c 11.3 c B CUTLESS 50 WP 0.125 LB AI/A JULY 6 A
CUTLESS 50 WP 0.25 LB AI/A JUNE 96.3 ab 115.0 b 8.88 b 8.50 a 30.0
b B CUTLESS 50 WP 0.25 LB AI/A JULY 7 UNTREATED 100.0 a.sup. 100.0
e 6.88 e 6.63 d 0.0 d LSD (P = .05) 5.13 .sup. 3.59 0.673.sup.
0.495 6.31 CV 3.71 .sup. 2.18 5.31 .sup. 4.21.sup. 17.37 Replicate
F 1.875 1.831 1.101.sup. 0.938 5.192 Replicate Prob (F) 0.1700
0.1777 0.3742 0.4431 0.0093 Treatment F 22.200 .sup. 45.000 19.551
.sup. 26.571.sup. 78.560 Treatment Prob (F) 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001
0.0001 0.0001
[0063] Evaluations 14 days after the June 13 application showed
significantly (P=0.05, Duncan's new MRT) better color, density and
overall growth inhibition with Primo+Cutless tank mixed at
0.05+0.125 LB AI/A than with Primo alone at 0.1 LB AI/A or Cutless
alone at 0.25 LB AI/A. By 26 days after the first application,
(data not in table) the low rate tank mix provided better color,
density, quality and scalping reduction than Primo applied alone at
0.1 LB AI/A. Cutless applied alone at 0.25 LB AI/A was not
significantly different from the low rate tank mix with any of the
evaluation criteria.
[0064] By 20 days after the second application made July 9, (data
not in table) the low rate tank mix gave significantly better
color, density, quality, overall growth inhibition and scalping
reduction than Primo applied alone at 0.1 LB AI/A. Ratings made 36
days after the second application showed few, if any, significant
differences between the low rate tank mix and either material
applied alone at 2.times. the respective tank mix rate.
[0065] In summary, Primo+Cutless applied to Tifway (419)
Bermudagrass at 0.05+0.125 provided significantly better turf
color, density and quality than either material applied alone at
2.times. the respective tank mix rates (Primo 0.1, Cutless 0.25 LB
AI/A) in ratings made 14 to 20 days after application. Differences
between tank mix and single treatments largely disappeared by 26 to
36 days after application. This trial indicates that tank mix
applications of Primo+Cutless at rates substantially lower than
those recommended for either material applied alone will provide a
relatively rapid regulation and good turfgrass color, density and
quality.
Example 4
[0066] The general procedure of Example 1 was repeated, except
adding to the protocol testing of combinations of paclobutrazol and
trinexepac-ethyl. The application regimen for each plot is outlined
below.
TABLE-US-00005 Plot PGR regimen 1 Primo + Cutless 0.05 + 0.125 lb
ai/a 2 Primo + TGR 0.05 + 0.125 lb ai/a 3 Primo 0.05 lb ai/a 4
Primo 0.1 lb ai/a 5 Cutless 0.125 lb ai/a 6 Cutless 0.25 lb ai/a 7
TGR 0.125 lb ai/a 8 TGR 0.25 lb ai/a 9 Untreated (check)
[0067] Applications were made on Dec. 10, 2010; Oct. 26, 2006; Dec.
26, 2003 and Dec. 27, 2002. The results are shown in Table 4 below.
The results evidence that beneficial treatments of turfgrass are
achieved through combinations of trinexapac-ethyl with
paclobutrazol and with flurprimidol.
[0068] While the invention has been illustrated and described in
detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be
considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it
being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown
and described and that all changes and modifications that come
within the spirit of the invention are desired to be protected.
* * * * *