Date of Award
May 2019
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Division of Agriculture (SAFES)
Committee Member
Lambert B McCarty
Committee Member
William C Bridges
Committee Member
Christopher Saski
Committee Member
Matthew Cutulle
Abstract
Goosegrass (Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn.), a C4 grass found in most areas of the world, is one of the most troublesome weeds in tropical and temperate environments. Turfgrass systems are intensely managed and frequently used for a number of different sporting pursuits. Due to high traffic, these areas become compacted and maintaining a healthy sward of dense turfgrass can be challenging, as a result these areas can become infested with weeds such as goosegrass. Understanding a weeds life cycle and biology is fundamental in developing control strategies. Three main areas of interest in regards to goosegrass biology and control were investigated: late-summer life cycle, genetic diversity of ecotypes, and control within ‘Tifway 419’ bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. X Cynodon transvaalensis Burtt-Davy). Noted results include; goosegrass germinating on August 15, in Clemson, SC completes a life cycle and produces viable seed before the first killing frost. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) are associated with phenotypically distinct goosegrass ecotypes and immediate irrigation following postemergent herbicide application reduces turfgrass injury while maintaining goosegrass control. Future work is needed to further investigate the genetic differences between phenotypically distinct goosegrass ecotypes.
Recommended Citation
Kerr, Robert, "Goosegrass Biology, Genetic Diversity and Innovative Control Measures" (2019). All Dissertations. 2335.
https://open.clemson.edu/all_dissertations/2335