TOP DRESSING
Self-sustaining Microclover could prove key to overcoming more frequent drought conditions
s drought conditions
A continue and more restrictions come into force around water usage over the coming weeks , it is hard not to notice that many local authority sports grounds , gardens and public spaces have fallen victim to heat , particularly in terms of visual merit . However , you may have noticed that amongst the current brown and baron land , patches of green remain – clover – which , as DLF explain , generates its own nitrogen from the atmosphere making it one of the most tolerant varieties to drought and other high stress environments .
Alongside more frequent periods of sustained hot and dry weather , the rise in fertiliser prices is driving seed producers to look for varieties that can be maintained with a more sustainable nitrogen programme . The unique root nodules on clover are formed by the Rhizobium bacteria , capable of converting atmospheric nitrogen into a natural fertiliser available for the clover as well as the companion grasses . Sourced in this way , the supply will also be gradual and ongoing , contributing to more sustained growth when compared to the ‘ flush ’ that can occur when larger quantities of nitrogen are applied as part of a managed feeding programme .
Microclover is a special bred dwarf white clover which joins in well with other turf species . The smaller leaves and lower growth habit contribute to a dense , uniform appearance as well as delivering strong wear qualities and heat / drought tolerance . All of this means that the inclusion of Microclover can result in a sward that suffers from less weed and disease invasion , and
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Alongside more frequent periods of sustained hot and dry weather , the rise in fertiliser prices is driving seed producers to look for varieties that can be maintained with a more sustainable nitrogen programme .
one that requires less water , fertiliser and ultimately cost , to sustain . In trials conducted by the STRI , Microclover is proven to deliver enhanced coverage and improved colour when compared to pure grass swards .
Masterline ’ s PM82 Microclover Sport mixture from DLF , has been specifically blended with these benefits in mind . PM82 improves turf quality whilst being kinder to the environment thanks to its reduced requirements for herbicide and fertiliser . Alongside Microclover , PM82 also features 40 % Double 4turf ® tetraploid perennial ryegrass . The deeper rooting nature of DLF ’ s 4turf ® varieties means it can better withstand drought-like conditions and remains green even when the plant above ground is starved of water .
www . dlf . co . uk
78 GroundskeepingJournal . co . uk | September / October 2022