RTF Grass Seed: What It Is and Why We Use It

RTF Grass Seed: What It Is and Why We Use It

All grass seed isn’t the same; there's a specific type we like to use here at Holmes Lawn and Landscape for both aeration and overseeding. RTF (Rhizomatous Tall Fescue) grass seed has the ability to provide a thick and resilient turf that holds up well throughout Indiana's fluctuating weather conditions.

RTF is a type of tall fescue that, due to rhizomes (underground shoots), can grow and fill in thin or damaged areas in your lawn over time. Traditional tall fescue, on the other hand, grows mainly in an individual clumping form and doesn't have the reparative capacity RTF does.

Why We Use RTF Grass Seed

-Better drought tolerance thanks to RTF's deep root system

-Better self-repair for thinner, broken-off, or high-trafficked areas


-Strong resistance to normal stresses of daily lawn wear and heat.


-Great, attractive turf with a rich green appearance


-Excellent performance in Indiana’s seasonal climate

Why Pair RTF with Aeration and Overseeding?

Core aeration creates openings in compacted soil, giving new seed better access to soil, water, air, and nutrients. Overseeding with RTF immediately afterward helps establish new growth throughout the lawn and improves overall turf density.

With time, this application can diminish those bare areas, improve the durability of current turf, and allow the development of a healthier, stronger turf that resists weeds.

For a homeowner wanting to strengthen a stressed, weak, or thinly occupied turf, Fall Core Aeration and Overseeding with RTF is one of the better investments you can make for your lawn.

Looking to have your lawn strengthened this fall? Contact Holmes Lawn & Landscape for aeration and overseeding!