AST8218LM 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. AST8218LM 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. AST8218LM 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
AST8218LM 7.9
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
AST8218LM 8.0
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
AST8218LM 8.0
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
AST8218LM 7.2
Mustang 4 5.0
Bonsai 4.6
Darlington 4.3
Speedway 4.3
Crossfire 3 4.2
LSD 1.0
GENETIC COLOR RATINGS
Tall Fescue Cultivars
2008 Data
Verboort, OR
Ratings 1-9, 9=Dark Green
AST8218LM 7.8
Mustang 4 5.9
Bonsai 4.5
Darlington 4.5
Speedway 4.2
Crossfire 3 4.1
LSD 1.2
LEAF TEXTURE RATINGS
Tall Fescue Cultivars
2008 Data
Lewisburg, PA
Ratings 1-9, 9=Very Fine
AST8218LM 7.5
Mustang 4 6.1
Darlington 4.8
Speedway 4.7
Bonsai 4.6
Crossfire 3 4.5
LSD 1.0