Evaluating the influence of plant age on the creeping bentgrass microbiome in a controlled environment

This study was developed to evaluate the influence plant age exerts on the developing creeping bentgrass microbiome, from emergence to six-months post-emergence. Using a greenhouse as a controlled environment, any shifts in the microbial communities should be driven by changes in plant age. Most of our knowledge on the turfgrass microbiome comes from field studies, where the environment can greatly influence microbial communities. By examining the influence of plant age we are providing reference for future studies aimed at manipulating the microbiome for improved plant health.