Why Choose TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda for Your Lawn?
TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda is the ultimate choice for a resilient, green lawn year-round, renowned for its superior drought tolerance, excellent wear recovery, and minimal maintenance needs compared to other couch varieties. Ideal for various Australian climates, it excels in full sun, moderate shade, and drought conditions. With a Smart Approved WaterMark and backed by 25 years of research, TifTuf ensures a high-quality lawn with a 10-year product warranty for complete satisfaction and peace of mind.
What Are the Key Aspects of TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda?
Drought Resistance
Very High
Shade Tolerance
Up to 50%
Wear Tolerance
Very High
Maintenance Level
Very Low
Leaf Type
Fine
Why Is TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda a Superior Choice for Lawns?
TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda, developed through extensive research by the University of Georgia, is engineered for those seeking a durable, vibrant lawn. This advanced turf variety sets a new standard for drought tolerance, requiring 38% less water than other grasses and maintaining its lush green colour even under extreme conditions. Recognised with the Smart Approved WaterMark, TifTuf offers a combination of resilience and superior performance.
Key Benefits:
- Superior Drought Tolerance: TifTuf requires 38% less water than other turf varieties, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice. It remains green and vibrant even under drought stress, a testament to its exceptional resilience.
- High Wear Tolerance: Ideal for high-traffic areas, TifTuf's dense growth and self-repairing nature make it perfect for home lawns, sports fields, and commercial landscapes. It can withstand the wear and tear of busy backyards and sports activities with ease.
- Fine Leaf Texture: TifTuf boasts a fine leaf blade that provides a soft, luxurious feel underfoot. This fine texture also contributes to its excellent shade tolerance and aesthetic appeal.
- Year-Round Colour: TifTuf retains its vibrant green colour longer than other Bermuda grass varieties, even during winter. An application of liquid iron in June or July enhances its winter colour, ensuring your lawn looks its best all year round.
- Low Maintenance: Requiring less fertiliser and infrequent mowing, TifTuf is a low-maintenance option when compared to other couch grasses that saves you time and effort. It can be mowed to a height of 8mm to 36mm, depending on your preference, with less frequent mowing needed in winter.
A Quarter Century of Research and Development
TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda is the result of nearly 25 years of dedicated research and development by the University of Georgia, a leading turf grass breeder. This variety was hand-selected from over 30,000 different Bermuda varieties for its superior qualities in drought tolerance, shade tolerance, wear tolerance, and winter colour.
How is TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda Developed?
- Extensive Testing: TifTuf underwent rigorous testing to ensure superior performance and resilience in various conditions.
- Selected from Over 30,000 Varieties: It was chosen for its outstanding characteristics, including drought and wear tolerance.
- Developed by Experts: The University of Georgia, a world leader in turf grass breeding, spearheaded its development.
Why Is TifTuf the Best Instant Turf for Drought-Prone Areas?
Australia’s harsh climate, characterised by dry summers and frequent droughts, demands a turf variety that can withstand such conditions. TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda is the ideal choice for drought-prone areas, proven to require 38% less water than other grass varieties.
How Does TifTuf Excel in Drought Conditions?
- Water Efficiency: Recognised with the Smart Approved WaterMark for its water-saving properties.
- Rapid Root Establishment: TifTuf establishes roots up to 75% faster than other varieties, making it quick to settle.
- Saves Time, Money, and Effort: Minimal water requirements reduce maintenance costs and efforts.
How Does TifTuf Handle High Wear and Self-Repair?
TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda excels in high-traffic areas due to its exceptional wear tolerance and self-repairing capabilities. This makes it perfect for busy backyards, sports fields, golf courses, and commercial landscapes.
What Makes TifTuf Ideal for High-Traffic Areas?
- Dense Growth Habit: Offers high wear tolerance, ideal for areas with heavy foot traffic, kids, and pets.
- Self-Repairing Ability: Ensures quick recovery from damage, maintaining a lush appearance.
How Is TifTuf 100% Genetically Pure?
Maintaining genetic purity is crucial for TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda, ensuring that its superior qualities are preserved in every piece of turf. Bred from a single plant, TifTuf guarantees consistent quality and performance.
- 100% Genetically Pure: Offers reliable performance with each installation.
- Bred from a Single Plant: Preserves exceptional traits across every roll of turf.
- Consistent Quality: Ensures uniformity and excellence in every lawn.
What Are the Engineering and Scientific Attributes of TifTuf?
TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda is the product of advanced scientific research and engineering. It was bred as one of 27,700 experimental Bermuda grass genotypes and rigorously tested under various conditions, including drought stress and wear tolerance trials.
- Tested in Numerous Trials: TifTuf was evaluated in 19 drought-stress trials and 2 sports field wear tolerance trials.
- Maintains Quality Under Stress: Selected for its ability to maintain quality and green colour under deficit irrigation.
- Sets the Benchmark: TifTuf sets a new standard for drought tolerance with minimal maintenance needs.
How Do You Maintain TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda Instant Turf?
Maintaining TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda Instant Turf is easy and efficient, thanks to its lower maintenance requirements and resilience in contrast to other couch varieties. By following a few simple care practices, you can ensure your lawn remains lush, healthy, and beautiful throughout the year. It is important to know the key maintenance practices, such as mowing, fertilising, and watering, to maximise the benefits of your TifTuf lawn.
How to Maintain TifTuf Hybrid Instant Turf?
Maintaining TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Regular mowing, fertilising, and occasional watering are all it takes to keep your lawn looking lush and healthy.
Fertilising:
- Apply LSA Lawn Fertiliser at 1kg per 100m² in August, December, and March. An application of liquid iron in June or July will improve winter colour.
TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda is designed for low maintenance, thriving with fewer inputs compared to other warm-season grasses. Proper nutritional management is key to maintaining its lush, healthy appearance with minimal effort. Here’s how to ensure your TifTuf stays vibrant:
- Starter Fertiliser: Apply a starter fertiliser about a month after installation to encourage strong root growth.
- Fertilisation Frequency: Only fertilise when the grass shows signs of deficiency, such as losing colour. Regular small applications based on soil analysis reports are better than infrequent large doses.
- Liquid and Granular Fertilisers: Use both types according to soil needs. Liquid iron and other micronutrients can enhance colour without adding nitrogen.
- Prevent Over-Fertilisation: Excessive fertilisation can lead to unnecessary growth, requiring more mowing. Always monitor and adjust accordingly.
- Weed Control: Apply a combination of fertiliser and oxadiazon pre-emergent in spring and autumn to prevent weed germination.
- Monthly Fertilising for Sand Profiles: Alternate between liquid and granular fertilisers to keep the grass healthy in sandy soils.
Mowing:
- TifTuf can be mowed as low as 8mm or left to grow up to 36mm. Regular mowing improves the quality and appearance of the turf.
TifTuf’s growth habit allows it to be mown at various heights, making it adaptable for different uses. Whether for sports fields or residential lawns, follow these tips for optimal mowing:
- Mowing Height: TifTuf can be mown as low as 4mm or left to grow up to 36mm. Adjust the height based on your lawn's specific needs.
- Canopy Management: Never remove more than one-third of the grass height at once to maintain a dense, healthy canopy.
- Scalping Precaution: If scalping occurs, avoid lowering the mowing height until the grass has recovered.
- Mower Type: Both rotary and reel mowers work well, but ensure blades are sharp to avoid tearing the soft TifTuf blades.
- Mowing Frequency: Regular mowing promotes a dense canopy. Reduce frequency by using plant growth regulators (PGR) or limiting nitrogen and irrigation.
- Avoid Mowing in Extreme Heat: Never scalp the lawn in temperatures over 30°C, as this can damage the grass and slow recovery.
Winter Care:
- Less frequent mowing is needed in winter. If a very short lawn is required, bi-weekly mowing during the growing season is recommended to avoid scalping.
Weed and Pest Control
TifTuf is renowned for its drought tolerance and ability to maintain growth with minimal water. Proper irrigation and pest management further enhance its durability:
- Irrigation: Water deeply but infrequently, ensuring the top 100mm of soil is soaked. Overwatering, especially in winter, can do more harm than good. TifTuf requires up to 38% less water than other warm-season grasses.
- Shade Tolerance: While not highly shade-tolerant, TifTuf can handle up to 4.5 hours of direct sunlight daily. Be cautious with watering in shaded areas and limit foot traffic to prevent damage.
- Weed Resistance: TifTuf’s rapid growth and dense undergrowth make it competitive against weeds. Regular maintenance and appropriate chemical treatments can keep pests and diseases at bay.
Overseeding
TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda Grass excels at maintaining green cover during colder months, making overseeding unnecessary for non-elite surfaces like council parks and schools. However, for elite surfaces where vibrant TV colour is essential, it’s crucial to prepare the turf properly:
- Dethatching/Scarifying: Before overseeding, use appropriate equipment to dethatch or scarify the turf, ensuring effective seed establishment.
- Ryegrass Removal: At the end of the autumn/winter season, apply a ryegrass removal product, following label rates, to maintain TifTuf as the dominant grass.
- Non-Elite Surfaces: Overseeding is generally not required due to TifTuf’s impressive resilience and ability to maintain green cover.
To add a fourth column, reduce the size of these three columns using the right icon of each block. Then, duplicate one of the columns to create a new one as a copy.
How Often Should TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda Grass Be Watered?
A well-planned watering schedule is crucial for maintaining a healthy and vibrant lawn. The age of your lawn, the season, and weather conditions will all influence how often you need to water your TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda Grass. Here’s a detailed guide:
- Watering Newly Laid Turf (Weeks 0-4):
- Water your new TifTuf turf as soon as possible after laying and keep it consistently damp during the establishment period, which typically lasts 2-8 weeks depending on the variety and season.
- For the first 4 weeks, water 2-3 times a day to prevent the turf from drying out, especially in extreme heat.
- Watering Established Turf (Weeks 4-6+):
- Once your TifTuf lawn’s root system begins to establish (when the turf feels firm to the ground), gradually reduce the watering frequency while increasing the duration of each watering session.
- Slowly transition to watering once a day, then every second day, until you can give your lawn one deep soak (1-2 hours) once a week. This encourages deeper root growth, helping your lawn to become more resilient.
- Ongoing Care: Once established, TifTuf requires watering only during extended dry periods, thanks to its deep root system, which helps it stay green and healthy with minimal water.
- Drought Conditions: In drought situations, water sparingly, focusing on early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation and make the most of the water applied.
What Is the Best Way to Water Your Lawn?
The method you use to water your TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda Grass is just as important as the frequency. For optimal results:
- Use a Portable Sprinkler or Pop-Up Irrigation System: These methods distribute water evenly and efficiently across your lawn.
- Portable Sprinklers: If you’re using a portable sprinkler, ensure you move it around your yard as needed to cover all areas.
- Handy Tip: Consider adding a tap timer to your system, so you can "Set & Forget," ensuring your lawn gets the right amount of water without the need for constant attention.
What Warranty Comes with TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda?
Every purchase of TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda comes with a 10-year product warranty, providing you with peace of mind and assurance of quality. This warranty ensures that you are receiving genuine TifTuf Bermuda, backed by Lawn Solutions Australia's nationwide guarantee. Whether for a small backyard or a large commercial landscape, you can trust in the durability and performance of TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda.
How Do You Install TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda Instant Turf?
Preparing and Installing TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda Instant Turf requires careful processes and attention to detail to ensure a healthy, long-lasting lawn. By following the correct steps and guidelines, you can achieve a professional finish and optimal results for your new turf.
What Are the Steps for Preparing to Lay TifTuf Hybrid Instant Turf?
Proper site preparation is vital for ensuring the long-term success of your lawn. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Clear the Area: Remove any existing grass using a weed killer, and clear away rocks, sticks, and other debris from the soil.
- Loosen the Soil: If the area is soil or clay-based, use a rotary hoe to break up the surface, promoting better root development.
- Improve the Soil: If there’s limited topsoil, add a layer of sandy garden loam, such as Daisy’s Lawn Mix, to enhance the soil’s quality.
- Check pH Levels: Ensure the soil pH is between 6 and 7.5. Adjust by adding lime if necessary to raise the pH.
- Retain Moisture: Incorporate water storage crystals into the soil to help retain moisture.
- Fertilise: Apply a slow-release fertiliser to provide essential nutrients and support the turf’s initial growth.
How Do You Lay TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda Turf?
Laying TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda is a straightforward process that, when done correctly, ensures a professional finish and a healthy lawn. Here’s how to do it:
- Start from the Furthest Point: Begin laying the turf from the furthest point of entry and work your way back. This approach helps prevent walking on the newly laid turf.
- Tight Joints: Butt the ends of the turf rolls tightly together without leaving gaps to ensure even growth.
- Brick-Work Pattern: Lay the turf in a brick-work pattern to promote even establishment and reduce erosion risk.
- Cut to Fit: Use a sharp knife, garden shears, or a spade to trim the turf around paths, fences, and other obstacles for a precise fit.
- Water Immediately: Once the turf is laid, water it immediately to help the roots establish.
Key Considerations for TifTuf Installation:
- Stolonisation Rate: TifTuf requires a stolonisation rate of only 2-5%, much lower than other couch varieties, which typically require around 10%. This lower rate is due to the dense stolonising material in TifTuf, meaning less is needed for effective coverage.
- Handling Slabs, Standard & Maxi Rolls: TifTuf is a densely matted grass with exceptional tensile strength and extensive rhizome and root growth. To ensure the grass establishes well, it is important to lay it as soon as possible after delivery to avoid the roots drying out.
- Bed Preparation: Lay the turf on a bed of 50-100mm of quality predominated sand turf underlay for best results.
- Avoid Starter Fertiliser: Do not apply starter fertiliser when laying TifTuf, as this can promote vertical growth and lead to early scalping.
- Watering Post-Installation: Saturate the soil bed for the first 10 days, then gradually reduce water inputs as the turf matures. Once established, TifTuf should need no more than 12mm of water per week, except in extreme heat.
- Initial Mowing: Mow the turf within 5 days of laying, or as soon as the roots are established, to encourage lateral growth and a thick, healthy lawn.
What Is the Best Time to Lay TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda Grass?
TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda can be installed year-round, but for the best results:
- Optimal Seasons: Spring and early summer are ideal for laying TifTuf, as the warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours encourage rapid root establishment.
- Avoid Extreme Heat: If laying turf during very hot weather, make sure to water regularly to prevent the turf from drying out.
- Winter Installation: If laying in winter, ensure the turf receives adequate sunlight and water to maintain its green colour and health. While TifTuf can be laid during the cooler months, establishment may be slower, so extra care is needed to ensure successful growth.
Overall How Does TifTuf Stand Out Among Other Turf Varieties?
TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda is not just another grass variety; it is a scientifically engineered solution for modern lawn challenges, providing unparalleled benefits:
- Advanced Research and Development: Backed by extensive research from the University of Georgia, TifTuf is designed for top performance in a variety of conditions.
- Sustainability: With its Smart Approved WaterMark, TifTuf is recognised for its water efficiency, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
- Versatility: Suitable for a range of applications, from residential gardens to commercial landscapes, TifTuf adapts to various environments with ease.
- Long-Term Investment: With a 10-year warranty and proven resilience, choosing TifTuf means investing in a lawn that looks good and performs well for years to come.
TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda Instant Turf represents the pinnacle of turf innovation, offering a robust, beautiful lawn solution that meets the demands of Australia’s challenging climate. With its superior drought tolerance, wear resistance, and low maintenance needs, TifTuf is the perfect choice for anyone seeking a high-quality lawn with minimal effort. Whether you're looking to enhance your home's curb appeal or create a durable surface for recreational use, TifTuf delivers unmatched performance and satisfaction.