Effects of 5-aminolevulinc acid on the growth of manilagrass and bentgrass

Abstract

Effects of 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) on the growth of manilagrass and bentgrass (Penncross) were investigated. Foliar application of ALA at low concentrations such as 30-100ppm showed promotive effectiveness on the growth and photosynthesis of manilagrass. When the compound was applied at early October, it prevented discoloring of manilagrass in early winter and it promoted sprouting and greening of the turfgrass in the following spring.
The promotive effectiveness of ALA were also observed in bentgrass, when the compound was applied at 5 -10ppm. Bentgrass were more sensitive than manilagrass to ALA treatment. Promotive effectiveness of ALA on these turfgrasses might be caused by the properties of stimulation of photosynthesis and suppression of respiration.