Effect of nano-hydrophobic sand layer on Bermudagrass (Cynodon spp.) in urban landscaping

Urban landscaping is an unavoidable part of urban architecture. And, without turf, it is hard to plan urban landscaping. In urban areas, like the United Arab Emirates, it is very difficult to achieve this due to the scarcity of irrigation water. In this regard, we analyzed a novel technology to reduce the urban water requirement in the landscape architecture. Hydrophobic sand can be used to improve plant and soil characteristics without any adverse effect and can save water also. We studied the effect of this sand layer on the morphological and physiological responses of Bermudagrass together with its effects on the soil characteristics. The application of hydrophobic sand improved the shoot fresh weight, dry weight and plant height of Bermudagrass. The results of heavy metal testing of the leaves, roots and soil of Bermudagrass showed that the concentration (of Cd, Mo, Pb and Se) is within the recommended level.