| Research was conducted at Michigan State University (2004 and 2005) to compare the effects of different mulched maple (Acer species) leaves on broadleaf weeds in established Poa pratensis L. The objectives of this study were to (a) quantify the effectiveness of maple leaf mulch as an organic broadleaf weed control, and (b) identify which species and at what rate provide the most effective control. Experimental design was a RCBD in a 5x2x2+1 factorial, tree leaf species [Acer rubrum L., A. saccharinum L., A. saccharum M., A. saccharum M. (high sugar content), and Quercus rubra L.], leaf particle size (2.5-6.4 cm2 and 1.3 cm2), leaf application rate (0.5-kg m-2 and 1.5-kg m-2) and control, respectively. Results suggest that leaves applied at the 1.5-kg m-2 rate provided the greatest dandelion (Taraxacum officinale W.) control, up to 80%. Results also suggest A. saccharum M. species provide the greatest dandelion control, up to 81%. |
