TifTuf Bermuda Grass

Tif Tif Bermuda Best Management Practices (BMPs) 

Mowing

• Frequency and Height:
  Scientific trials demonstrate that mowing height significantly affects TifTuf’s water use and drought response. Maintain a mowing height of 1 – 2 inches for optimal turf health, especially under water-limited conditions. Mow every 3 – 5 days during peak growth, ensuring you never remove more than one-third of the leaf blade at a time. This practice reduces stress and helps the grass maintain density and color3.

• Blade Sharpness:
  Always use a sharp mower blade. Clean cuts reduce the risk of disease entry points and help maintain a uniform, resilient lawn canopy. BES-TEX Sharpens blades evey Wedsday. 

Irrigation

• Water Requirements:
  TifTuf was bred and selected for exceptional drought tolerance. Research shows it can maintain green color and quality with as little as 12 mm (about 0.5 inches) of water per week during dry periods, outperforming other Bermuda cultivars in both drought and wear trials.

• Irrigation Depth and Frequency:
  Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep rooting aim for soil moisture to reach at least 6 inches deep. Allow the surface to dry between waterings to further promote drought resilience.

• Timing:
  Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and reduce risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilization

• Nutrient Needs:
  For balanced growth, apply a 16-8-8 fertilizer (16% nitrogen, 8% phosphorus, 8% potassium). Research supports applying 3 – 5 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 sq ft per year, split between spring green-up and late summer. Avoid excessive fertilization, which can increase susceptibility to disease and environmental stress.

Pest and Disease Management

• Insect Control:
  TifTuf shows improved resistance to many common turf pests, but regular monitoring is advised. If insect activity is observed (e.g., thinning, browning), identify the pest and use targeted, science-based control methods.

• Fungal Diseases:
  TifTuf has a unique fungal microbiome compared to other Bermuda varieties, which may affect disease susceptibility. However, it can still develop issues like spring dead spot and Pythium blight, particularly under high humidity and overwatering.

  • Avoid evening irrigation and maintain recommended mowing heights.

  • Remove excess thatch and avoid over-fertilization.

  • If disease appears, use fungicides labeled for Bermuda grass and follow integrated pest management (IPM) practices.

Scientific Insights

• Superior Drought Tolerance:
  TifTuf’s drought survival is linked to both physiological adjustments and robust rhizome production, allowing it to recover and retain green color longer than other cultivars7.

• Microbiome Research:
  Studies reveal TifTuf harbors unique beneficial fungi and bacteria, which may contribute to its stress tolerance and overall health1.

Summary Table

Proper management of TifTuf, based on peer-reviewed research, ensures a resilient, water-saving, and attractive lawn, combining scientific rigor with practical steps for every homeowner.