top of page

TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda Install & Maintenance Guide

TifTuf is a hybrid Bermuda grass chosen from over 30,000 cultivars for its outstanding drought and wear tolerance and the ability to hold an impressive colour through the colder months.

 

  • TifTuf requires less nutrient and only 40%* of the water needed for standard warm season grasses.

  • TifTuf boasts rapid regrowth from wear and is more shade tolerant than any other Bermuda grass.

  • TifTuf has been specifically bred to withstand harsh and varied climates like those experienced in Australia.

  • TifTuf can be kept with minimal inputs and retain an impressive appearance. For the enthusiasts, TifTuf can be prepared like a bowling green.

 

To successfully maintain a TifTuf lawn, there are a few key points to understand to get the best out of this exceptional performer.

*UGA testing showed TifTuf retained an acceptable level of appearance with 40% less water than comparable grasses.

1 

Installation

TifTuf is a very densely matted grass with exceptional tensile strength and extensive rhizome and root growth beneath the grass surface.
Important points for TifTuf installation:

  • Install the grass as soon as possible after delivery

  • Lay on a bed of 50 to 100mm of quality turf underlay

  • Launcher fertiliser is not recommended during the peak growing season (Sept to March)

  • Roll to compact new turf to improve contact with the soil

  • Soak the newly laid turf thoroughly for 10 to 14 days after installation or until fully established

  • Reduce irrigation once established and water only when the grass appears dry

  • Mow as soon as the grass has rooted in to promote lateral growth (should be in 3 to 5 days after installation)

1 

Irrigation

TifTuf is an extremely drought tolerant grass once established. This means it requires considerably less water to maintain acceptable growth and appearance. Growth of TifTuf can be regulated by decreasing watering, therefore reducing maintenance needs.
Important points for irrigation of TifTuf:

  • If watering is necessary once established, water only when there are signs of the grass drying out, as excess irrigation can hinder the grass rather than help

  • Do not overwater in the cooler months

  • If irrigation is needed, water deeply to soak the top 100mm of soil

  • Water early morning for improved efficiency and plant health

1 

Mowing

TifTuf’s growth habit allows it to be mown at a range of heights. TifTuf has been bred specifically for the sports turf market and can be kept as low as 9mm or let to grow out to 36mm depending on the usage requirements. If TifTuf is left for long periods without mowing, caution must be taken not to take too much leaf at once.

Important points for mowing TifTuf:

  • Ensure mower blades are sharp

  • Never remove more than 1/3 of the leaf at any one time unless dethatching

  • Mowing frequency can be reduced with controlled irrigation and fertiliser

  • TifTuf can be kept between 9mm and 36mm in home lawns; below 25mm is recommended for best appearance

  • If excess scalping occurs, increase mowing height and allow leaf to regrow to desired level

  • If needed, dethatch in early spring for best results

  • For a manicured lawn weekly mowing is recommended

1 

Fertilising

TifTuf has been specifically bred to require less inputs than other warm season grasses. TifTuf requires less than 1/3 the amount of fertiliser to maintain healthy growth and appearance. Over fertilising TifTuf can lead to excessive growth and mowing.

Important points for fertilising TifTuf:

  • Apply Lawn Solutions Australia fertiliser at a rate of 10g/m2 or 1kg/100m2

  • Liquid iron, natural colourants and other micronutrients can improve colour without the use of nitrogen based fertilisers

  • Add nutrients in measured amounts and monitor growth and health of the grass before reapplying

  • TifTuf growth can be regulated with reduced fertiliser inputs while remaining healthy and green

1 

Weed and Pest Control

The rapid coverage and dense undergrowth of TifTuf, along with its low input requirements and winter growth activity mean that TifTuf can compete quite successfully with weeds and other turf grass species that may try to invade your lawn.

TifTuf also resists several pests and diseases, but may need some assistance from time to time. TifTuf can be treated with most commonly available chemicals that are suitable for couch grasses. Ensure application directions are followed and if unsure, it is always a good idea to check with your Lawn Solutions Australia supplier for chemical compatibility before use.

1 

Shaded Areas

TifTuf can withstand areas of medium shade, needing only 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Important points on shaded areas:

  • TifTuf can be used in areas of medium shade

  • Be careful not to overwater shaded areas especially in the cooler months

  • Reduce traffic on lawn in shaded areas where possible

  • Ensure there is at least 100mm of quality soil under the turf when laid

IMG_4308_edited.jpg
1000011041.jpg
482628333_1196192098886836_7905676778761539257_n.jpeg
bottom of page