Blog
Apr 10

STRI Testing: Aquatrols Seed Enhancement Technology Improves Germination, Establishment

Aquatrols Seed Enhancement Technology improves seed germination and establishment under water deficit conditions, according to a report from the Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI) in Bingley, UK.

STRI testing showed that Aquatrols’ surfactant seed coatings improved seedling emergence and sward establishment of Chewings fescue in greenhouse conditions. The surfactant seed coatings also showed promising shelf life characteristics in perennial ryegrass and tall fescue, according to Dr. Ruth Mann at the STRI.

The germination of treated seeds was significantly better than untreated seeds after eight months in storage.  Separate, ongoing testing at Aquatrols’ global headquarters has shown that viability of treated seed was unaffected after 18 months.

Aquatrols President and CEO Tracy Jarman was encouraged by the results of the STRI testing.

“Aquatrols has always prided itself on a commitment to research. We are constantly working to better understand the science behind soil-water-plant interactions and how our products affect the dynamic relationship between soil and water. Working with independent organizations, such as the Sports Turf Research Institute, helps us to objectively evaluate our new and existing technologies. We are very pleased with these results and are excited about the potential widespread impacts of Aquatrols Seed Enhancement Technology,” she said.

Screen Shot 2015-03-20 at 3.58.42 PM
About the Sports Turf Research Institute

As the world’s leading sports turf consultancy, the Sports Turf Research Institute provides independent advice to more than 2,100 sports clubs and leisure facilities every year. The organization offers specialist advice and expertise for natural and artificial sports surfaces across the globe. The STRI works with clients to provide quality and cost effective solutions for the design, construction, and management of sports surfaces. For more information, please visit www.stri.co.uk.

Aquatrols

About The Author

More than 60 years ago, Aquatrols introduced the world’s first commercially available soil wetting agent. Since creating an entirely new product category to address water management challenges and opportunities, the company has remained a top innovator and producer of high-performance soil surfactants and related technologies. Aquatrols’ advanced product suite optimizes soil-water-plant interactions in agricultural, professional turfgrass, and horticultural industries in more than 40 countries. Headquartered in southern New Jersey, Aquatrols also has offices in the United Kingdom and conducts business on six continents.