Tifton (hybrid bermudagrass)
Cynodon dactylon × Cynodon transvaalensis
A hybrid of two bermudagrass species, selected for fine, dense turf and used on football pitches and stadiums. It sets no viable seed, so it is propagated from sod or plugs.
At a glance
| Family | Poaceae |
|---|---|
| Season type | Warm-season |
| Heat tolerance | ●●●●● |
| Cold tolerance | ●●●●● |
| Shade tolerance | ●●●●● |
| Wear tolerance | ●●●●● |
| Drought tolerance | ●●●●● |
| Mowing height | 10–25 mm |
| Propagation | Sod / Plug |
| Upkeep | High upkeep |
| Native range | Hybrid (of cultivated origin) |
Growing conditions
| USDA hardiness zones | 7–10 |
|---|---|
| Sunlight | Full sun |
| Watering | Medium |
| Growth rate | Fast |
| Soil pH | 5.5–7 |
| Common problems | Sod webworm / armyworm / Dollar spot / Thatch build-up / Winter kill |
How to grow it
Climate and sun
A hybrid bermudagrass used on sports fields. Finer leaves and higher density come with a correspondingly higher standard of care. Full sun only — it thins fast in shade.
Planting
The hybrid sets no viable seed, so establish from sod or sprigs in early summer. Get the drainage right first; once the sward densifies, a poorly drained base stays wet.
Watering
Drought tolerant, but holding that density through summer takes one or two deep waterings a week.
Mowing
Cut at 10–25 mm, twice a week in season. It is dense and fast, so skipping a week puts you straight into scalping territory. A reel mower is the right tool.
Feeding
Monthly through the peak months — it asks for more than common bermudagrass because it is holding more density. Stop nitrogen in autumn.
Problems and winter
Thatch is the main management issue; plan on annual verticutting and sand top-dressing. Sod webworm and armyworm are the usual pests. It browns off in winter and can be killed outright in cold regions.