Tall fescue is a popular cool season turfgrass known for its durability, disease resistance, and shade tolerance. This versatile grass thrives in a wide range of soils and climates, making it an excellent choice for lawns, parks, athletic fields, and grassy slopes. If you’re considering planting tall fescue or already have it in your yard, here is a detailed guide with everything you need to know about growing and caring for this hardy grass.
An Overview of Tall Fescue Grass
Tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) is a clump-forming cool season perennial grass that spreads via short underground stems called rhizomes. It has a deep root system compared to other turfgrasses, with roots extending 6 feet or more into the soil profile. The blade texture is medium to coarse, with a rich green color.
Some key identifying characteristics of tall fescue include:
- Grows in dense bunches or clumps rather than forming a continuous turf
- Has very visible veination running the length of the blade
- Deep emerald green in color
- Coarser leaf texture than ryegrass or bluegrass
- Grows rapidly in spring and fall
- Excellent heat, drought, and pest resistance
Tall fescue performs best in full sun, but also tolerates partial shade. It thrives in a wide range of soil types and requires less irrigation than other cool season grasses once established. Fescue lawns stand up well to foot traffic and recreational use.
There are several different subspecies and cultivars of tall fescue grass available. Popular varieties include Kentucky 31, Rebel Exeda, Monopoly, Regenerate, RTF, and Titanium 2LS. Look for cultivars described as dwarf or rhizomatous types for the best lawn performance.
How to Plant Tall Fescue Grass Seed
One of the benefits of tall fescue is how easy it is to establish from seed. Here are some tips for planting fescue grass seed and getting it to germinate successfully:
When to Plant
- Spring and fall are the best times to plant cool season grasses like fescue. Avoid summer heat.
- For spring, plant seeds as soon as soil can be worked in late winter or early spring.
- For fall, plant at least 6 weeks before first frost date.
Soil Preparation
- Test soil and correct any pH or nutrient deficiencies. Ideal pH is 6.0-7.0.
- Eliminate existing weeds and vegetation. Spray non-selective herbicide or use solarization.
- Till soil to a depth of 4-6 inches to loosen and improve drainage. Break up any compaction.
- Rake and level soil surface to create a smooth seedbed.
Seeding
- Use a drop, broadcast, slit seeder, or hydroseeder to distribute seed.
- For new lawns, use 8-10 lbs of seed per 1000 sq ft. For overseeding, use 5-8 lbs per 1000 sq ft.
- Cover smaller seeds 1/4″ deep, and larger seeds 1/2″ deep.
- Pack soil gently with a lawn roller to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Post-Seeding Care
- Water lightly 2-4 times daily to keep soil moist but not saturated.
- Begin mowing once grass reaches 3.5-4 inches tall. Cut no more than 1/3 of blade height.
- Fertilize 4-8 weeks after emergence with a balanced starter fertilizer.
With proper seeding and care, tall fescue germinates in 10-14 days. Full establishment takes about 2-3 months. Overseeding into existing lawns fills in bare spots more quickly.
Growing Conditions for Tall Fescue Grass
One reason tall fescue is so widely adapted is its ability to thrive under diverse growing conditions. Here are the optimal requirements for fescue grass growth:
Climate
- Performs best in cool, humid climates with moderate summers
- Tolerates cold winters and hot, humid summers
- Grows actively in spring and fall when temps are 60-75°F
- Goes dormant and browns in extreme summer heat
Sun
- Grows best in full sun (minimum 6 hours direct sunlight)
- Tolerates moderate shade, but needs some direct sunlight
Soil
- Adapts to a wide soil pH range of 5.5 to 8.0
- Prefers slightly acidic soils with a pH of 6.0-7.0
- Grows in all soil textures from sandy to heavy clay
- Requires good drainage – does not tolerate wet soils
Water
- Requires 1-1.5 inches of water weekly, including rainfall
- Drought tolerant once established, but goes dormant if too dry
- Does not tolerate overwatering or frequent irrigation
Fertility
- Performs well in low to moderately fertile soils
- Requires 3-4 lbs nitrogen per 1000 sq ft annually
- Benefits from regular fertilization when actively growing
Providing optimal growing conditions encourages the best density, color, and vigor in a tall fescue lawn or field.
Mowing Tall Fescue Grass
Proper mowing practices are important for maintaining healthy and attractive tall fescue turf. Use these tips for best cutting results:
- Mow regularly at a height of 2.5-4 inches depending on use. Never cut below 2 inches.
- Never remove more than 1/3 of the total leaf blade height when mowing. For example, if grass is 4 inches tall, mow no lower than 3 inches.
- Sharp mower blades make cleaner cuts. Dull blades tear leaf tips, opening the grass to disease.
- Change mowing direction and overlap cutting swaths to prevent ruts.
- Mow when grass is dry to minimize disease pressure. Avoid mowing when foliage is wet.
- Adjust mowing frequency based on growth rate – cut 1-2 times per week in peak season, and every 10-14 days in cool weather when growth slows.
- Remove no more than 1/3 of the leaf surface during a single mowing session. Gradually reduce height over multiple mowings if a major cutback is needed.
- Leave clippings on the lawn as a natural fertilizer unless excess debris accumulates.
Proper mowing keeps fescue healthy while producing a manicured, consistent turf stand. Adjust practices as needed based on season, events, and lawn use.
Watering Requirements for Tall Fescue
Tall fescue has relatively low water requirements once established but requires adequate irrigation during grow-in and dry periods. Use these guidelines for best watering practices:
New Fescue Lawns
- Water new seedlings daily with light, frequent irrigation to maintain moist soil.
- Reduce watering frequency as grass matures. Established lawns need about 1″ weekly.
- Allow the top few inches of soil to partially dry between waterings after grass is 3-4 inches tall.
Established Lawns
- Tall fescue needs about 1-1.5 inches of water per week from irrigation or rainfall during the growing season.
- Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation loss. Avoid frequent, light watering.
- Use a screw driver to check soil moisture 4-6 inches deep. Water again when top layers become dry.
- Increase water needs during peak summer heat or drought stress. Prioritize deep, infrequent irrigation.
- Dormant fescue may only need monthly irrigation during cool seasons or drought.
Signs of Underwatering
- Wilting, folding, or blue-gray leaves
- Slower growth
- Thinning turf density
- Increased weed pressure
Signs of Overwatering
- Fungal diseases like brown patch, pythium blight, or gray leaf spot
- Soft, mushy turf
- Unhealthy root system
- Shallow rooting
Adjusting watering rates and frequency based on weather, growth stage, and conditions will keep fescue healthy with minimal water use.
Fertilizing Tall Fescue Grass
Fertilization is important for maintaining lush, green color and vigorous growth in fescue lawns. Follow these best practices:
When to Fertilize
- Apply first feeding 4-8 weeks after grass emerges or greens up in spring.
- Fertilize every 6-8 weeks during the active growing season.
- Avoid fertilizing after late fall to prevent winter damage.
What to Use
- A complete nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium turf fertilizer with micronutrients.
- Slow release nitrogen sources for steady feeding over 6-8 weeks.
- Organic options like compost, manure, corn gluten meal, or microbes.
How Much to Apply
- Use 3-4 lbs nitrogen per 1000 sq ft annually.
- Follow product labels for specific rate recommendations.
- Only apply up to 1 lb nitrogen per 1000 sq ft at a time.
Application Method
- Granular broadcast spreaders offer an even application.
- Liquid sprays target problem spots but require calibration.
- Sweep any fertilizer from sidewalks back into the lawn to prevent runoff.
Signs of Deficiency
- Pale green or yellowing leaves
- Weak turf density and growth
- Increased disease pressure
- Poor heat and drought tolerance
Proper fertilization keeps tall fescue looking its best while remaining healthy and hardy. Test soil regularly and watch plant health cues to determine optimal feeding rates and timing.
Dethatching Tall Fescue Lawns
Thatch is a tightly intermingled organic layer of dead stems and roots that accumulates between the soil and green foliage. It needs periodic removal to maintain lawn health.
When to Dethatch Fescue
- In early fall when grass enters dormancy or early spring after greenup
- When thatch layer exceeds 1/2 inch thickness
- At least every 2-3 years for healthy grass
Manual Dethatching
- Use a steel rake, dethatching rake, or manual thatching tool
- Rake vigorously across the lawn at multiple angles
- Remove debris with a lawn rake or leaf blower
Power Dethatching
- Electric dethatchers provide more aggressive removal
- Make overlapping passes in different directions
- Adjust tines based on desired depth
- Remove debris promptly after dethatching
Other Tips
- Core aerate compacted areas before dethatching
- Overseed bare spots apparent after thatch removal
- Topdress with compost to smooth ruts or uneven areas
Regular dethatching improves air, water, and nutrient infiltration for healthier fescue roots. It also helps prevent diseases.
Overseeding Fescue Lawns
Overseeding fills in thin or bare areas in existing tall fescue turf. This helps improve density and appearance.
When to Overseed
- Early fall is ideal, at least 6 weeks before frost
- Spring is also effective if irrigation is available
- After dethatching or aeration to enhance seed contact
How to Overseed
- Mow low and remove debris to expose soil.
- Scratch up bare areas with a rake to improve seed contact.
- Apply seed at half the rate used for new lawns.
- Gently rake seeded areas to cover seed with 1/4″ soil.
- Roll lightly and keep soil moist until germination.
What to Use
- Same fescue variety already established
- Dwarf turf-type tall fescue blends
- Consider mixing in up to 20% Kentucky bluegrass
Post-Seeding Care
- Irrigate lightly and frequently until established
- Reduce traffic on newly seeded areas
- Delay fertilizing newly overseeded areas until after second mowing
Overseeding restores density, improves color, and reduces weeds in fescue lawns. Focus on bare or thin spots for the best results.
Common Diseases of Tall Fescue
Tall fescue is susceptible to some common diseases, especially during hot, humid conditions. Here are tips for prevention and treatment:
Brown Patch
- Caused by Rhizoctonia fungi
- Circular patches of light brown, matted grass up to several feet wide
- Most active in summer heat with extended leaf wetness
Prevention
- Avoid excess nitrogen and thatch buildup
- Improve air circulation and drainage
- Water early to allow drying during the day
Treatment
- Fungicides like azoxystrobin, thiophanate-methyl or propiconazole
- Aerify and rake out diseased patches
- Adjust watering practices
Gray Leaf Spot
- Fungus Pyricularia grisea
- Initially yellow leaf spots turning dull gray with necrotic lesions
- Spreads rapidly under warm, humid conditions
Prevention
- Avoid leaf wetness exceeding 8-9 hours
- Promote good air movement
- Don’t over-fertilize with nitrogen
Treatment
- Several effective fungicide options available
- Increase mowing height and adjust irrigation
- Overseed to improve turf density
Leaf Rust
- Reddish-orange powdery spores on leaf blades
- Caused by Puccinia spp fungus
- Most prevalent in cooler fall weather
Prevention
- Select resistant fescue varieties
- Maintain optimal fertilization
- Prune or remove nearby barberry bushes
Treatment
- Fungicides with azoxystrobin, myclobutanil or propiconazole
- Increase air circulation
Prompt disease identification and appropriate treatment restores fescue to health. Prevention through proper cultural practices is key.
Weed Control in Tall Fescue
Weed infestations can be a persistent problem in fescue lawns and fields. Here are tips for reducing weeds:
Pre-Emergence Herbicides
- Products like prodiamine, dithiopyr, pendimethalin
- Apply in early spring to stop germination of summer weeds
- Useful for spot treating problem areas
Post-Emergence Herbicides
- Spray broadleaf weeds after greenup in fall or spring
- Products with 2,4-D, MCPP, dicamba, or quinclorac active ingredients
- Careful application to avoid fescue injury
Cultural Practices
- Maintain dense, vigorous turf through proper mowing, fertilization, irrigation, and cultivation
- Overseed bare patches prime for weed takeover
- Hand pull small infestations before weeds go to seed
- Spot treat with non-selective herbicides for isolated weeds
Weed ID
- Know common weed types plaguing fescue
- Crabgrass, goosegrass, and foxtails in summer
- Chickweed, henbit, and dandelions in cooler months
An integrated approach combining proper grass care, mechanical removal, herbicides, and monitoring offers the best weed control results. Healthy, thick fescue turf resists invasion.
Winterizing Tall Fescue Grass
Tall fescue remains semi-active even during cool weather but needs proper winter preparation and care. Here are tips for overwintering fescue:
Fall Overseeding & Fertilization
- Overseeding improves winter color and spring greenup
- Apply quick release fertilizer 6 weeks before frost for growth and recovery
- Avoid late fall nitrogen that can lead to winter damage
Mowing Adjustments
- Continue mowing until growth fully stops
- Make final cut slightly shorter than usual (~2.5″)
Leaf Removal
- Remove fallen leaves regularly with a mulching mower or rake
- Prevent smothering and snow mold diseases
Irrigation
- Continue watering if winter is dry until ground freezes
- Provide monthly deep watering during winter warm spells
Edging
- Redefine bed edges and hardscape borders
- Redirect grass away from obstacles
Spring Preparations
- Sharpen mower blades and trim under deck
- Perform any needed tree pruning or drainage improvements
- Order seed, fertilizer, amendments, and chemicals
Proactive fall preparations and attentive winter care ensure vigorous spring greenup and performance. Adjust practices as dictated by weather and location.
Most Common Tall Fescue Grass Problems
Despite its hardy nature, tall fescue can still experience issues from overuse, drought, diseases, and other factors.
Thatch Buildup
- Excessive layers of organic matter under green foliage
- Caused by dense growth, over-fertilization, and limited microbial activity
- Alleviate through dethatching, aeration, and topdressing
Compaction
- Layer of dense, hard soil that restricts root growth
- From heavy traffic and use on wet soils
- Core aerate and reduce traffic until turf recovers
Heat Stress
- Leaf browning, decline, and dormancy in peak summer
- Normal reaction to extreme temperatures
- Improve heat tolerance through proper fertilization and irrigation
Drought Stress
- Wilting, folding, thinning, and browning leaf blades
- Increase water needs during dry periods
- Prioritize deep, infrequent irrigation
Mowing Too Low
- Scalped appearance and weakened turf
- Never remove more than 1/3 total blade height
- Increase height and allow recovery regrowth
Routine practices like aeration, dethatching, overseeding, adjusted irrigation, and proper mowing reduce common fescue problems.
Varieties of Tall Fescue Grass
There are many different tall fescue varieties available, with new cultivars constantly released. Some top options include:
- Kentucky 31