How to Maintain a Healthy TifTuf® Bermuda Lawn All Year Round

TifTuf® Bermuda grass is a high-performance turfgrass known for its drought tolerance, durability, and fine texture. Developed by the University of Georgia, TifTuf® is engineered to thrive in challenging climates while maintaining its vibrant green color and lush appearance. However, like any turf, it requires proper care and attention to remain healthy and visually appealing year-round.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to maintain a healthy TifTuf® Bermuda lawn throughout all four seasons—ensuring your lawn stays lush, resilient, and picture-perfect.

Understanding TifTuf® Bermuda Grass

Before diving into seasonal care, it’s important to understand the characteristics that make TifTuf® unique:

• Exceptional Drought Tolerance: Requires up to 38% less water than other Bermuda varieties.
• Superior Wear Resistance: Ideal for high-traffic areas such as sports fields or active residential lawns.
• Rapid Establishment: TifTuf® establishes quickly with stolons and rhizomes.
• Early Spring Green-Up: It breaks dormancy sooner than many other warm-season grasses.

These qualities make TifTuf® a popular choice for homeowners and professionals alike. However, its full potential is only unlocked with consistent care.

Spring: Wake-Up and Growth

Spring is the season when TifTuf® Bermuda emerges from dormancy and begins active growth.

1. Scalping

Start the season by scalping your lawn. This involves mowing the grass down to about 0.5–1 inch to remove the brown dormant layer and encourage new green growth. Bag the clippings to avoid thatch buildup.

2. Pre-Emergent Herbicide

Apply a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring (when soil temperatures reach 55°F) to prevent crabgrass and other summer weeds. Products with prodiamine or dithiopyr are commonly used.

3. Fertilizing

Apply a balanced fertilizer (such as 16-4-8 or 10-10-10) once the lawn shows signs of consistent green-up. Use about 0.5–1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet.

4. Watering

Begin regular watering as needed, but TifTuf® needs significantly less than other grasses. Water deeply (around 0.5–1 inch/week), only when the lawn shows signs of stress.

Summer: Peak Growth and Maintenance

Summer is the most active growing period for TifTuf® Bermuda. Proper mowing, watering, and fertilization are key during this time.

1. Mowing

Mow frequently to maintain a height of 0.5 to 1.5 inches. Never remove more than one-third of the grass height at a time. Sharpen blades regularly for a clean cut.

2. Watering

Even though TifTuf® is drought-tolerant, consistent watering promotes deep root growth. Water early in the morning and adjust frequency based on rainfall and temperature.

3. Fertilizing

Apply nitrogen every 4–6 weeks during the summer, depending on lawn performance and color. A slow-release nitrogen fertilizer can help maintain steady growth.

4. Weed and Pest Control

Spot-treat weeds with post-emergent herbicides and monitor for pests such as armyworms and grubs. Use insecticides only when necessary to avoid harming beneficial insects.

Fall: Transition and Recovery

As the weather cools, TifTuf® slows its growth and begins preparing for dormancy. This is the time to repair any summer damage and build strength for winter.

1. Mowing

Gradually raise your mowing height by about 0.5 inches to help the grass store more energy in its roots.

2. Fertilizing

Apply a final round of fertilizer high in potassium (such as 5-10-30) in early fall to strengthen roots and improve winter hardiness.

3. Aeration

Core aerate in early fall if the lawn feels compacted or you notice poor water penetration. This helps oxygen and nutrients reach the root zone.

4. Overseeding (Optional)

In colder climates or for a green winter lawn, consider overseeding with ryegrass. TifTuf® recovers well when ryegrass is removed in spring.

Winter: Dormancy and Protection

TifTuf® enters dormancy in cooler temperatures, typically turning brown. While it’s not actively growing, there are still steps to keep it healthy.

1. Minimal Watering

TifTuf® rarely needs irrigation in winter unless experiencing a prolonged dry spell. Apply water only during droughts or unseasonably warm spells.

2. Avoid Heavy Traffic

Limit foot traffic and activity on the lawn during dormancy to prevent soil compaction and damage to the grass crown.

3. No Fertilizer

Avoid fertilizing dormant grass—it won’t absorb nutrients effectively and could encourage weed growth.

4. Weed Control

Winter weeds like annual bluegrass (Poa annua) can be controlled with pre-emergents in late fall and spot treatments as needed.

General Tips for TifTuf® Bermuda Lawn Success

1. Soil Testing

Conduct a soil test every 2–3 years to determine pH and nutrient levels. TifTuf® thrives in soil with a pH of 6.0–6.5.

2. Thatch Management

While TifTuf® has low thatch buildup, dethatching every few years helps maintain turf health. A vertical mower or dethatching rake can do the job.

3. Sharp Mower Blades

Always mow with sharp blades to prevent tearing the grass, which can lead to browning and disease.

4. Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Monitor for pests regularly and use the least toxic method available. Healthy lawns naturally resist many pests and diseases.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining a healthy TifTuf® Bermuda lawn year-round doesn’t require excessive input—it just requires consistent, informed care. With its superior drought resistance and resilience, TifTuf® is an ideal choice for homeowners seeking a beautiful lawn with lower water usage. By following the seasonal guidelines above, you’ll enjoy a dense, green, and durable lawn that performs well in almost any condition.

Remember, a little attention throughout the year goes a long way in preserving the beauty and performance of your TifTuf® Bermuda grass.