| Several fungal pathogens were tested for their ability to control cogongrass, Imperata cylindrica. In greenhouse trials, the application of spore suspensions of Bipolaris sacchari and Drechslera gigantea to cogongrass plants resulted in 30-50% foliar lesions and foliar blighting. The disease level was further enhanced when spores were applied in an oil emulsion. These fungi effectively controlled cogongrass under field conditions, when used individually or in combination.
In trials conducted in a greenhouse, cogongrass was selectively suppressed by B. sacchari while bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum), a desirable grass, was unaffected. Application of B. sacchari spores in an oil to cogongrass-bahiagrass mixtures reduced cogongrass biomass, plant height, and rhizome production without significantly damaging bahiagrass. Application of B. sacchari to cogongrass-bahiagrass mixtures during warmer months suppressed cogongrass and increased bahiagrass biomass.
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Copyright ©2002, UF Department of Plant Pathology