Brimpton, Berkshire, England: Magnesium is an essential component of the chlorophyll molecule which provides the aesthetic green shades that enhance the experience of golfers as well as the fundamental metabolic process of photo-synthesis.

Magnesium also plays a key role in nitrogen metabolism.

Along with the main roles of magnesium in plants in the formation of chlorophyll, it also has a role of enzyme activators. Photo-synthesis, protein formation and energy transfer all depend to a degree on an adequate supply of magnesium.

Soil usually contains between 0.05% and 0.5% total Mg, but only a small proportion is in forms available for plant uptake.

These figures may be slightly exaggerated on sand-based turf. Available magnesium is in the soil solution and it is held on the exchange sites of clays and organic matter (‘exchangeable magnesium’), like potassium.

However, unlike potassium, magnesium does not move from the non-exchangeable to the exchangeable forms easily.

Magnesium is an essential plant nutrient and a deficiency will affect turf quality and growth.

The efficiency of uptake of many nutrient elements is enhanced by a slightly acidic solution and, where possible, formulations are buffered to take account of this. The spreading action of the surfactants allows uptake though the cuticle of the leaf and does not limit penetration to the stomata.

To combat deficiencies and unavailable magnesium in the soil, Indigrow has developed a new product, Solar Energy.

“Solar Energy is a true foliar feed, containing magnesium in a readily available form,” said Brian Croose, Asean Regional Manager for Indigrow, a Full Business Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.

He added: “This sulphur-free formulation, containing a high concentration of magnesium, is ideal to enhance turf colour through the increased production of chlorophyll.

“The high magnesium content also helps the turf grass plant to increase protein synthesis and enzyme activity. Solar Energy will also improve the utilisation of phosphorous already available in the soil.

“The formulation allows for quick uptake of both magnesium, along with nitrogen. Once the readily available magnesium has been taken up by the plant, it will help promote increased utilisation of the potassium already in the soil.

“The product supplies much-needed magnesium to enhance chlorophyll metabolism in a predictable manner, increasing aesthetic quality and growth. The flexible application rates of Solar Energy provide both early growth and winter hardiness.”

*For further information about Solar Energy, click here.