Cynodon dactylon x C. transvaalensis
Dwarf hybrid green couch
TifEagle (was formerly protected by Australian Plant Breeder's Rights and United States Plant Patent), TW72 (breeder's code).
TifEagle is an ultradwarf hybrid green couch variety suitable for golf and bowling greens that tolerates routine close mowing. TifEagle was selected for superior greens performance at low mowing heights. Leaves 10.2 mm long and 1.14 mm wide. Internodes short: 10.5 mm (fourth visible stolon internode). Produces a large number of shoots at short mowing heights. Stems 1 mm or less in diameter. Light green leaves. TifEagle retains its light green colour in cooler periods. Appears to have less anthocyanin (red pigment) in the leaves than comparable varieties; TifEagle purples under mild winters conditions in South East Queensland.
TifEagle rarely produces seed heads. Very low weed potential. Retains colour at low mowing heights used to give faster ball speed. Designed for intensively managed golf greens. Thatch build-up needs to be controlled. Tolerates mowing 3 to 5 mm and requires frequent verticutting to remove thatch. Research by Bunnel et al. (2005) identified that few differences in turf quality existed when 8 or 12 hours of sunlight was available to the plant, whereas at 4 hours growth and performance was adversely effected. It was also highlighted that TifEagle was worse off when subject to afternoon shade than morning shade.
Pests, disease and weeds
Check to see which Pests, Diseases and or Weeds this turf variety may be susceptible to and how to successfully control them in your home lawn or sports turf.
