At Dark Hammock Legacy Ranch, we’re putting the utmost care into everything we do. When a new grass type comes around that’s even better than its predecessor, we’re eager to learn about it. Today we want to share that with you. The Tifton-9 grass is even better than the older Pensacola bahiagrass varieties. Keep reading to find out why we think you should consider putting this in your pasture, and visit our blog for more information on raising your cattle. 

Pensacola bahiagrass grows well in most areas of Florida and has more frost and cold resistance than grasses like Argentine or Paraguay 22, which allows more opportunity for growth near the beginning and end of the season. The Tifton-9 has improved even more though and has been shown to be vigorous in the seedling stage, which promotes a quick stand establishment. It also allows the plant to compete heartily against weeds, even at a young age.

An ideal site for Tifton-9 would be somewhere bahiagrass has never been planted. When Tifton-9 is mixed with bahiagrass, even unintentionally, it weakens the improved variety. An old bahiagrass pasture can still be used though, but extra steps should be taken. We’ve got a good bit of history here at Dark Hammock, and know that the end result is worth the extra hassle. 

Start by prepping your field with a moldboard plow. This will bury any old remaining seed too deep to germinate. Plant an annual forage crop during the warm season and a small grain, ryegrass or clover during the cool season to further eliminate any leftover bahiagrass. Plant your Tifton-9 sometime between February and July, using at least four pounds of seed per acre.

Tifton-9 produces 30 to 40 percent more forage per year, and has still been shown to be as digestible as previous Pensacola varieties. That combined with rugged growth and resiliency in seed proves this grass is a keeper.

We’re excited to share with you what our farm produces. Check out our website to purchase our grass-fed beef. Believe us, you’ll taste the difference.