Certis launch moss killer for use on golf courses

Press Releasein Golf

Moss treated with MogetonA much needed option for the long term control of moss on golf courses was launched to the greenkeeping sector at BTME this week.

Containing the active ingredient quinoclamine, Mogeton will be available to use as a horticultural turf treatment on golf courses from the start of May 2013.
Brought to the market by crop protection firm Certis, technical officer Alan Horgan explained; "Greenkeepers have been crying out for a new solution due to the lack of effective long term solutions," he said." "It will be a valuable new tool."

He described the control achieved with Mogeton as being a result of the treatment's ability to inhibit the photosynthetic process of the moss species; with long term control being due to a surface deposit that it leaves and which acts to prevent further germination of the moss spores. This delivers efficacy over many weeks, preventing any attempts from moss to re-colonise the area."

Alan added that in trials Mogeton has been proven to be effective on a range of moss species over a period of at least 15 weeks after treatment.

Efficacy has been backed up by independent trial results conducted by The Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI). A spokesman said; "During our independent trial the most effective moss control results were achieved from applications of Mogeton. The trial delivered really good, targeted control of moss."

She added that when treating moss traditionally, iron is known to discolour moss black. However in this trial, conducted by STRI using traditional iron treatments, the discolouration of the moss was restricted to the top of the plant only and did not extend to the base of the moss. The moss treated with Mogeton was discoloured brown right through to the base of the plant, showing a deep penetrating, targeted moss control."

Based on the active ingredient quinoclamine, Mogeton's mode of action inhibits the photosynthetic ability of the moss species, making the seasonality of treatment a vital consideration.

Alan Horgan explains that light levels are significant and it's important that the moss is actively growing and photosynthesising at the time of treatment. "As a result the label permits application only between May and August (inclusive), with a water volume of 1L/m2 ensuring that adequate soaking of the moss is achieved, which is an integral part of the control process," he said.

He also noted that the label is restricted to watering can application only to deliver highly targeted control and to ensure treatments are only made where necessary.

With one application permitted per calendar year, greenkeepers are urged to carefully plan for the strategic use of this new tool, scarifying and collecting the removed moss material once treatment has taken full effect. Users must also abide by the label application rate of 1.5g/m2 (15kg/ha).

Image: Mogeton treatment results in moss turning brown following treatment.

Article Tags:
Golf

Want the latest news, ideas and exclusive offers direct to your inbox?
Then sign up to our weekly newsletter today.