Implications on Use in Lawns
The results from this study demonstrate that the bioherbicide is effective at controlling slender aster, with a final level of control dependent on rate applied. Though significant control was not observed either year at the lowest application rate (32 g m zy, limited activity was observed. Again, it should be noted that the material tested only contained half of the potency of the target commercial product intended for consumer use. Therefore, the amount of product used in these studies was twice that of the anticipated final commercial product. While a 128 g m 2 rate may be required for lawns with high weed pressure, lower rates (32 and 64 g m2) may be adequate for light weed infestations. Furthermore, unlike CGM, which must be broadcast applied at high rates over the entire lawn for preemergence control, the bioherbicide could be used as a remedial postemergence weed spot- treatment product, thereby reducing the total application amount substantially.
Effective weed control using the bioherbicide has been observed under a range of temperatures and appears to be limited to the season of and site of placement, with no apparent phytotoxicity application to desirable warm-season turfgrass. While future research is needed to more clearly define the spectrum of weed species controlled by this bioherbicide, it appears suitable candidate for use as a natural broadleaf weed control option for lawns.