Selection of Effective Moss Control Agents for Polytrichum commune and Marchantia polymorpha in Pinus densiflora Container Seedlings

Abstract

Moss in container seedling nurseries competes with seedlings for water and nutrients while blocking light, thereby inhibiting growth. This study aimed to address this issue by evaluating the moss control efficacy of 11 chemical compounds, including terpinyl acetate (TA), limonene, and Hinoki essential oil (HEO). The plate experiment results led to the selection of 6 substances (TA, limonene, HEO, pine leaf extract, baking soda, pelargonic acid) that stably controlled both Polytrichum commune Hedw. and Marchantia. Polymorpha L. When TA, limonene, and HEO were combined with surfactants, moss control rates increased and showed stable performance. In the container seedling experiment, TA, limonene, and HEO demonstrated high moss control effects while exhibiting low growth inhibition. When these three substances were combined with surfactants, the electrolyte leakage index (ELI) decreased, indicating minimal cell membrane damage. Additionally, TA treatment maintained stable soil physicochemical properties with no significant changes in pH or nutrient levels. Microscopic analysis of moss cells showed cell wall deformation and expansion of intercellular spaces in the three substance treatment groups. Future verification of long-term effectiveness, expansion of application targets, and assessment of economic feasibility could lead to the development of eco-friendly moss removal agents for improving container seedling quality.