Dr. Bernd Leinauer and colleagues from New Mexico State University presented new findings on Aquatrols Seed Enhancement Technology (ASET) at the 2014 Salinity Forum in Riverside, CA June 16-18. The forum addressed issues critical to salinity management and maintaining or enhancing food production, while also considering economic and social aspects.
Dr. Leinauer presented findings from a study conducted at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, NM in 2013. The controlled environment study investigated the effects of experimental polymer-coated ASET seed on the establishment of perennial ryegrass and seashore paspalum grown under saline irrigation conditions. Results indicate that the polymer coatings had positive effects on turfgrass emergence and establishment under irrigation with saline water.
According to Leinauer, the ASET technology could have a number of real world implications, including reduced irrigation requirements for the germination and establishment of turfgrass and/or allowing for the use of saline water during establishment.
“Moreover, such coatings could also allow turf managers to propagate from seed in already salinized soils, which would otherwise be considered impossible to establish turf,” the authors conclude.
Dr. Stan Kostka, Aquatrols Director of Technology and Innovation envisions wide-ranging implications for the ASET technology that extend beyond improving seeding establishment in turfgrass and into seeds of agricultural and horticultural crops.
“We’re only just beginning to wrap our minds around the implications of this novel technology. ASET has the potential to address many of the pressing issues related to food production, drought, compromised soil and water quality, and our changing climate,” said Kostka.
About Aquatrols
Aquatrols is the global leader in the development of cutting edge soil surfactants and other technologies in the professional turf, ornamental, and agricultural industries. Family owned and operated since 1954, Aquatrols combines state of the art research and development techniques, a knowledgeable sales force, and a long history of industry expertise to serve its customers. For more information on Aquatrols products, please visit www.Aquatrols.com.