RTF ® Tall Fescue Grass Seed

Detailed 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 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, Victoria and NSW. In addition to drought tolerance, the general hardiness of RTF^® Tall Fescue is almost impossible to beat. Its 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 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 over-seeding to maintain density and avoid a clumpy appearance.

Optimal Planting Time

We recommend planting in Autumn, allowing the roots to develop over winter, resulting in a stronger lawn for the summer.

Germination

Germination usually occurs in 14-21 days, depending on climate and conditions. It has a bunch-forming growth habit.

Water

Keep moist until the roots are well established. Once mature, its roots can reach as deep as 2m/6 feet, tapping into water unavailable to other varieties. In cooler climates, it usually does not require irrigation.

Please Note: This grass will need significant watering during Summer and on unseasonably hot days. It may burn and die off during very hot temperatures when not watered adequately. We recommend the use of Restore Granular Wetter to assist in protecting the root system through the hotter months and for best performance throughout the year.

Fertilizing

Fertilising with Slow Release Fertiliser is recommended with seeding and again 8 weeks post germination to establish the root system. This fertiliser can be applied at the time of seeding and on newly established shoots, however ensure fertiliser is watered in well to avoid fertiliser burn.

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

First Mowing

Mow when grass is approximately 7cm tall. This indicates that the roots are established enough to withstand mowing. Shaded areas may require the grass to be kept slightly longer to aid photosynthesis in diminished light.

Mowing Frequency

Fescue grass isn’t a particularly quick grower, so mowing is less frequent than with other varieties. Cut it relatively high (between 5cm and 10cm), as mowing lower can expose the sod, drying it out and potentially leading to bare patches.

Disadvantages of RTF^®

• Good soil drainage is required to avoid disease.
• 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

All of our seeds are Independently Tested for Germination and Purity. A seed testing certificate is available upon request.

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