Q:We had TifGrand bermuda sod installed last year. We’ve noticed it has started to thin in areas, even though they receive full afternoon sun. The landscaper mows it three to four inches in height. Should TifGrand be treated differently from regular bermuda?

A: TifGrand was released to the public in 2010 by University of Georgia researchers, who developed the grass to have better tolerance to shade than other hybrid bermudagrasses. The recommended mowing height is ½ to 1 ½ inches, removing no more than 1/3 total height at one time. In the spring, do not apply lawn fertilizer until the soil temperature at four inches is 65 degrees or higher. Apply fertilizer 3 – 4 times before September 15.