March 2020 Pitch Diaries
No amount of graphs of historical data, or TV news bulletins that feature wellie-clad reporters against a backdrop of rivers that have burst their banks, can portray what we're experiencing at the moment. Saturated doesn't cover it, and even as I sit writing this agronomic diary update, it is steadily raining.
Although the Blackthorn is blooming and the Hawthorn is starting to break its buds in the hedgerows, spring feels like it's a long way away. Spring officially starts in three weeks' time, although the adage not to 'cast a clout till May is out', referring to the Hawthorn blossom which typically occurs during the month of May.
Research has shown that a series of complex chemical signals are triggered in plants as soon as it starts raining. Myc2 is a protein which, when activated, causes thousands of genes to spring into action to prepare the plant's defences. These warning signals travel from leaf to leaf and induce a range of protective effects. Why would plants panic when it rains? Rain is the leading cause of disease spreading between plants.
In this month's diaries we look at how research has shown that a series of complex chemical signals are triggered in plants as soon as it starts raining.
Don't forget, you can also use our Pitchcare Forum, where members can ask for and offer advice on the whole range of sports turf surfaces issues.