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New moss killer for use in turf

A newly registered product, Mogeton, containing the active ingredient quinoclamine, approved for use as a horticultural turf treatment, will provide a much needed new solution for moss control in managed amenity turf on golf courses, crop protection firm Certis has announced.

Mogeton treatment results in moss turning brown following treatment.

A newly registered product, Mogeton, containing the active ingredient quinoclamine, approved for use as a horticultural turf treatment, will provide a much needed new solution for moss control in managed amenity turf on golf courses, crop protection firm Certis has announced.

“Following a substantial increase in customer enquiries relating to moss infestations that have thrived during the recent and persistent, wet weather, the new approval is very positive news,” believes Alan Horgan, Certis’ technical officer.

“Customers have been crying out for a new solution due to the lack of alternatives until now,” he says. 

“In trials, Mogeton has given good control of a range of moss species including sphagnum,” he reports.

The trials have also shown good turf safety for a range of grass species. Trial users have also noted that the Mogeton treatment results in the moss turning brown following treatment, as opposed to moss which turns black following treatment with iron sulphate.

“In addition, applying Mogeton leaves a surface deposit which inhibits the germination of moss spores and, therefore, its effectiveness is extended over many weeks,” he adds.

Mogeton also contains an orange dye which makes it easy to see where treatment has been made. This is particularly useful when making spot applications. Users should note that the orange colour fades within a few days following application.

Based on the active ingredient quinoclamine, Mogeton’s mode of action inhibits the photosynthetic ability of the moss species. “It’s therefore important that the moss is actively growing and photosynthesising at the time of treatment to ensure maximum product efficacy,” he advises.

The time of year and light levels are also important considerations, notes Alan, which is why the label permits application between May and August. Use is restricted to application via a watering can or dribble-bar application system.

A water volume of 10,000 l/ha ensures that adequate soaking of the moss is achieved which is an integral part of the control process.

With one application permitted per calendar year, users 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 15kg/ha.

For more information please contact the Certis technical hotline on 0845 3730305.