Module 5:

5.3 Providing insight into activities

5.3.5 Applying pesticides and other plant protection type chemicals

What is used?

Pesticide (typically a selective herbicide, fungicide, or insecticide) and other chemicals (e.g. plant growth regulator [PGR]), as well as water for correct dilution, if liquid based.

Spray tank and boom, knapsack, or similar applicator if diluted in water, or spinning disc, or similar spreader, if granular type material is used. Power unit and fuel for it.

Some reasons for applying pesticides and other chemicals

1. To reduce weed, pest, disease content.
2. To encourage a more competitive and desirable grass species, thereby increasing its content within a sward.
3. To provide for a more uniform and attractive sward.
4. To maintain consistency of ball to surface interaction, especially ball roll and ball bounce.

Some reasons for applying plant growth regulators

1. To improve sward density.
2. To reduce seed head production of grasses. This is mostly aimed at annual meadow grass which can produce seed heads anytime of the year.
3. To provide for a more consistent and uniform sward.
4. To reduce the quantity of grass clippings, helping to reduce mowing frequency.