RTF Fescue Grass Seed – The Best Self-Repairing Tall Fescue Lawn for Homeowners and Landscapers

Looking for a tall fescue grass that fills in bare spots, stands up to traffic, and reduces maintenance? RTF® (Rhizomatous Tall Fescue) may be the perfect lawn solution—especially for homeowners and professionals seeking a self-repairing cool-season grass that thrives in Oklahoma and beyond.

At Johnston Seed Company, we proudly offer Barenbrug RTF Fescue grass seed—a premium, rhizomatous tall fescue blend that’s both tough and lush. Whether you’re planting a new lawn or improving an existing one, RTF offers unmatched performance in durability and recovery.

What Is RTF Fescue?

RTF stands for Rhizomatous Tall Fescue, a cool-season turfgrass known for its ability to spread via underground stems called rhizomes. These rhizomes allow RTF Fescue to:

• Spread laterally underground

• Repair damaged or bare lawn areas naturally

• Create a dense, uniform turf with fewer inputs over time

Unlike traditional tall fescue, which grows in clumps and requires annual overseeding, RTF is self-repairing, thanks to its rhizomatous growth habit—making it ideal for high-use lawns, sports fields, and commercial landscapes.

Key Features:

• Self-repairing rhizomes fill in bare spots

• Deep-rooted drought tolerance

• Soft, lush texture for a premium lawn feel

• Excellent disease resistance

• Performs well in sun and partial shade

Is RTF Fescue the Same as Bermuda Grass?

No. Although some people mistakenly call it a “Bermuda Fescue” due to its spreading habit, RTF Fescue is not a bermudagrass. It is a true tall fescue variety with unique rhizomatous traits, giving it some of the spreading advantages typically associated with warm-season grasses like Bermuda—but with all the cool-season benefits.

Why Choose RTF Fescue from Johnston Seed Company?

Our RTF Fescue blend is sourced from Barenbrug USA, a leader in turfgrass innovation. This blend includes four elite fescue varieties—two traditional tall fescues and two rhizomatous tall fescues. This combination delivers a balance of durability, adaptability, and self-repair.

We also offer this seed with Yellow Jacket® seed coating, a cornstarch-based technology that improves water retention and boosts seedling success during establishment.

Ideal Planting Conditions for RTF Fescue

To maximize success when planting RTF Fescue grass seed:

• Planting Time: Best sown from Labor Day to late September for fall establishment

• Seeding Rate: 8–10 lbs per 1,000 sq. ft.

• Seeding Depth: ¼ to ½ inch

• Starter Fertilizer: Apply a light rate of 10-20-10 at planting

• Nitrogen Boost: Apply additional nitrogen 30 days after germination

• Soil Testing: Always conduct a soil test before planting to ensure optimal pH and nutrient levels

Pro Tip: RTF takes 6–12 months to fully develop its rhizomatous spread. During the first season, overseed any sparse areas to ensure full coverage.

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Create a Lawn That Repairs Itself – Shop RTF Fescue Today

Stop spending time and money overseeding every year. With RTF Fescue from Johnston Seed Company, your lawn can repair itself naturally, saving you time, effort, and cost while looking beautiful all year long.

🛒 Order Now: Shop RTF Fescue Grass Seed
📞 Questions? Call Us: 800-375-4613
📧 Email Support: johnseed@johnstonseed.com