The Influence of Water Deficiency On Creeping Bentgrass Cuticle Layer and N15 Uptake.

Abstract:  Changes in cuticular wax morphology, composition, leaf wettability and N15 absorption of ‘A4’ creeping bentgrass (Agrostis palustris subsp. Stolonifera L.) under water deficiency treatments (100% ET returned, 80%, and 60%) have been investigated.  ‘A4’ creeping bentgrass was established in 1 gallon pots with 85:15 (sand:peat, v:v) USGA specification rootzone mix in the greenhouse at Clemson University, Clemson, SC.  Epicuticular wax morphology was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), wax composition was analyzed by gas chromatography (GC), and leaf wettability measured by contact angle.  Foliar uptake was measured by foliar applying labeled N¹⁵ urea with a CO₂ packback sprayer then analyzing % uptake.