RTF Tall Fescue Seed

Description

RTF Tall Fescue is set apart from other fescues due to its ability to repair itself. It is less prone to diseases and pests than other varieties. In the cooler climates, it can survive without irrigation due to its deep rooting ability. It is not as drought tolerant as warm-season grasses such as Buffalo and Couch, however, it is one of the most drought tolerant cool-season grasses making it ideal for the cool yet dry areas of Southern SA and WA. On top of the drought tolerance, the general hardiness of RTF Tall Fescue is almost impossible to beat. The ability to cope with stiff frosts makes it an ideal candidate for Victoria and Tasmania.

Optimal pH: Tall Fescue grows best in soils with a pH of 5.5-7.5.

Sowing Tips: Broadcast the seed at, or near, the soil surface and incorporate lightly with raking. To ensure the best coverage and avoid seed wastage we recommend using an appropriate seed spreader for the size of your area. The soil must remain damp throughout the germination period of both seeds and must be maintained for at least 1-2 weeks after sowing, through irrigation or natural rainfall. Adequate water supplies need to be maintained until the grass is fully established. RTF Tall Fescue benefits from periodic overseeding to keep the density and to avoid a clumpy appearance.

Optimal Planting Time: We recommend that you plant RTF in Autumn, which allows the roots to develop over winter, which will result in a stronger lawn for the summer.

Germination: 14-21 days, climate, and condition dependent. It has a bunch forming growth habit.

Water: Keep moist until the roots are well established. Once the grass is mature its roots can dig as deep as 2m/6 feet, tapping into the water underneath the ground not normally available to other varieties and species. In cooler climates, it does not usually require irrigation.

Please Note: This grass will need significant watering during Summer and on unseasonably hot days. It tends to burn and die off during very hot temperatures when not watered adequately.

Fertilizing: Another aspect of fescue’s hardiness is the fact that it isn’t really bothered by poor soil. Like any grass, if you give it ideal conditions and a fertilized, nitrogen-rich soil with a neutral pH it will obviously look its best, but it is not a required aspect of your lawn maintenance routine.

First Mowing: When grass is approximately 7cm tall. This should indicate that the roots are established enough to withstand the mowing process. Shaded areas may require the grass to be kept slightly longer to aid photosynthesis in diminished light areas.

Mowing Frequency: Fescue grass isn’t a particularly quick grower, so you won’t need to get the mower out as often as other varieties. Cut it relatively high (between 7cm and 10cm), as mowing any lower can expose the sod, drying it out. This may result in bare patches forming in your lawn.

Disadvantages of RTF:

• Good soil drainage is required to avoid disease.
• Can feel bristly and not as soft as other grass varieties.
• Cutting too low can dry out the sod.
• Requires more watering in Summer than warm-season grass varieties.

Seed & package details: 100% RTF Tall Fescue.

Independently Tested: 80% Min Germination, 98% purity. A seed testing certificate is available upon request.

Where can I sow this grass in Australia? Areas 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Shade Tolerance: Excellent

Drought Tolerance: Good

Traffic Tolerance: Excellent

Frost Tolerance: Excellent