AST8118LM is an elite, turf-type tall fescue variety developed through years of research and development from unique germplasm discovered in space plant nurseries. It was selected for its slower growth habit, shorter plant height and exceptional density. These attributes result in a turf that requires less mowing, has fewer clippings and are environmentally friendly. AST8118LM exhibits a dark green genetic color which is evaluated without the use of fertilizer and requires less fertilizer to achieve the desired appearance. Other characteristics include unsurpassed density, improved uniformity and medium-fine leaf texture. Improvements were also made in heat/drought tolerance and in resistance to brown patch, pythium and rust diseases. An aggressive tillering growth habit enables this variety to repair itself from physical damage and accelerates recovery time. AST8118LM will save time and reduce input costs by allowing for less frequent mowing, reduced equipment use and overall maintenance.
Uses
- Commercial/Residential lawns
- Athletic fields
- Recreation areas
- Parks/Cemeteries
- Golf course roughs
- Sod production
- Roadsides/Low maintenance turf
Management
Planting Rate
- (new): 6-8 lbs./1000 square feet
- (existing): 3-4 lbs./1000 square feet
Planting Dates
- (spring): March-May
- (fall): August-September
Soil pH: 5.5-8.0
Mowing Height: 2-4 inches; increased heights should be utilized during summer months to reduce stress to the plant
Fertility: 4-7 lbs. N/year (refer to soil test for exact amounts needed); Minimum N should be applied during summer months to reduce disease activity.
TEST RESULTS
TURFGRASS QUALITY RATINGS |
Tall Fescue Cultivars
2014 Data
Verboort, OR
Ratings 1-9, 9=Best |
AST8118LM |
7.7 |
Bonsai |
5.8 |
Darlington |
5.2 |
Crossfire 3 |
5.0 |
Speedway |
4.5 |
Mustang 4 |
4.4 |
LSD |
0.8 |
|
GENETIC COLOR RATINGS |
Tall Fescue Cultivars
2008 Data
Lewisburg, PA
Ratings 1-9, 9=Dark Green |
ASP8118LM |
7.7 |
Crossfire 3 |
4.9 |
Darlington |
4.8 |
Bonsai |
4.8 |
Speedway |
4.5 |
Mustang 4 |
3.4 |
LSD |
0.7 |
|
TURFGRASS QUALITY RATINGS |
Tall Fescue Cultivars
2008 Data
Lewsiburg, PA
Ratings 1-9, 9=Best |
AST8118LM |
7.9 |
Mustang 4 |
6.3 |
Bonsai |
6.2 |
Crossfire 3 |
5.3 |
Speedway |
5.3 |
Darlington |
4.3 |
LSD |
1.1 |
|
DENSITY RATINGS |
Tall Fescue Cultivars
2008 Data
Lewsiburg, PA
Ratings 1-9, 9=Max Density |
AST8118LM |
7.2 |
Mustang 4 |
5.0 |
Bonsai |
4.6 |
Darlington |
4.3 |
Speedway |
4.3 |
Crossfire 3 |
4.2 |
LSD |
1.1 |
|
GENETIC COLOR RATINGS |
Tall Fescue Cultivars
2008 Data
Verboort, OR
Ratings 1-9, 9=Dark Green |
AST8118LM |
7.8 |
Mustang 4 |
5.9 |
Bonsai |
4.5 |
Speedway |
4.5 |
Crossfire 3 |
4.2 |
Darlington |
4.1 |
LSD |
1.2 |
|
LEAF TEXTURE RATINGS |
Tall Fescue Cultivars
2008 Data
Lewisburg, PA
Ratings 1-9, 9=Very Fine |
AST8118LM |
7.4 |
Mustang 4 |
6.1 |
Darlington |
4.8 |
Speedway |
4.7 |
Bonsai |
4.6 |
Crossfire 3 |
4.5 |
LSD |
1.0 |
|