The Benefits of TifTuf’s Growth Habit
TifTuf grass, also known as Cynodon dactylon, is a type of warm-season grass known for its strong growth and ability to spread quickly. It grows above the ground through runners called stolons, which help it recover fast from damage and create a thick and even carpet of grass.
TifTuf has a very fine leaf blade with dense growth, making it ideal for a wide variety of applications. Its density enables it to handle high-wear situations like backyards and sports fields whilst it has reasonable shade tolerance and a very soft leaf to walk on.
TifTuf Bermuda has been scientifically forged to produce a great-looking all round lawn with superior qualities whilst requiring minimal inputs.
Is TifTuf Hard to Maintain?
No lawn is entirely maintenance-free, but TifTuf is known for being relatively easy to care for. It has natural defences against diseases, pests, and drought, making it less needy compared to other types of grass. However, you still need to mow, water, and fertilize it properly to keep it looking its best. Its hardy nature means it won’t demand excessive maintenance.
Does TifTuf Grass Need Frequent Mowing?
How often you should mow TifTuf grass depends on various factors like how tall you want it, how fast it grows, the weather, and the type of soil.
As a general rule, it’s a good idea to mow TifTuf when it’s about 2.5 to 4 centimetres tall during the growing season. This usually means mowing every 7 to 10 days. It’s best to use a catcher when mowing TifTuf to avoid thatch build-up.
For the most lawn-proud, TifTuf can be mown very low as compared to other varieties (down to 9mm). You can use a cylinder mower to get a most manicured look, or even lawn stripes if that’s what you’re after (and have the time to put in the effort!)
During the warmer months, when it grows faster, you will need to mow more often than in the winter when you may not need to mow very often at all. In general, the grass blades should be left a bit longer in winter to help the plant make the most of the available sunlight.
How Much Water Does It Need?
TifTuf is great at handling drought compared to many other types of grass, but it still needs some water to stay healthy and good-looking. The key is to water it deeply when it needs it, but not too often during the active growing season. With TifTuf, you really only need to water when the grass is looking dry.
How to Fertilize TifTuf?
Fertilizing is important for any healthy lawn. It gives the grass the nutrients it needs for strong growth, deep roots, and vibrant colour. It’s a good idea to get a soil test before applying fertilizer to figure out exactly what your lawn needs.
TifTuf turf usually benefits from a balanced fertilizer with the right mix of nutrients. You can use a slow-release granular fertilizer during the growing season, typically in spring and early summer, to get the best results. TifTuf does well with 1-2 applications of fertiliser a year. It’s best not to use a fertiliser that’s high in nitrogen in the autumn or winter.
How Does TifTuf Compare to Other Turf Varieties?