Matador GT: Tall Fescues

Released in 2004 and developed by Pure Seed Testing as PST-5TUO, 'Matador GT' was screened extensively at both Hubbard, OR and Rolesville, NC for improved turf quality, brown patch resistance, and glyhosate tolerance. A broadly adapted variety that provides quality turf in all but the most extreme areas of the Southeast. It is also one of the few tall fescues with good performance during the cool wet winters of the Pacific Northwest.

Very dark green and dense, 'Matador GT' features a finer leaf texture than most tall fescues and a lower growth habit. Once established, it forms a deep root system for good drought tolerance.

'Matador GT' joins Turf-Seed's 'Pure Gold' and 'Tomahawk GT' tall fescues as the only documented glyphosate tolerant tall fescues available. This tolerance to low rates of glyphosate ( ie. Roundup, Razor, etc ) enables turf managers improved control of grassy weeds in tall fescue turf. When coupled with a broadleaf weed management program, a tall fescue turf virtually free of weeds can be acheived. For more detailed information regarding the use of glyphosate on 'Matador GT' please review our recommendations in the maintenance section.

Uses:

• A broadly adapted variety that is excellent for use in all but the most extreme areas of the southeast. Well suited for home and commercial lawns, golf course rough, and sod production where a slower-growing high quality tall fescue is desired.

Establishment:

• For general use, recommended seeding rate is 8-10 lbs. per 1000 sq. ft. with a quality starter fertilizer applied at planting.
• Best seeded in late summer, early fall, or spring.
• Keep seed bed uniformly moist for first three weeks with germination in 8-12 days.
• First mowing when turf reaches approximately 2".
• Full coverage to be expected in 6-8 weeks with limited use of the area in 8-10 weeks.

Maintenance:

• Requires a low to moderate annual rate of nitrogen, 3-4 lbs. of actual N per 1000 sq. ft.
• With a lower growth habit, 'Matador GT' thrives at a 1.0" to 2.5" cut.
• Best irrigated deep and infrequently for reduced disease pressure, 'Matador' requires less frequent irrigation than perennial ryegrass and Kentucky bluegrass turf.

Weed-Free Tall Fescue Program:

• 'Matador GT' has a glyphosate tolerance of 4-6 ounces of 41% glyphosate per acre ( 0.10 oz of product per 1000 sq. ft).
• No sticker or spreader should be added to the solution.
• For small turf areas, best applied with a back-pack sprayer with a fan nozzle. DO NOT overlap spray pattern as damage may occur.
• Turf may be sprayed 90 days after germination.
• Some mild discoloration to the turf may occur, however, typical recovery withing 10-14 days.
• Best success if applied to actively growing turf during spring months with minimal yellowing.
• Do not apply if extreme temperatures, both freezing and heat, are forecasted.
• Do not apply to turf in stress, ie drought or low fertility.
• Read and follow all instructions for the use and safe handling of glyphosate.