Fescue grass refers to a family of cool-season grasses that are a popular choice for lawns, especially in temperate climates. There are several different species and varieties of fescue grass, each with their own unique characteristics and benefits. Let’s take a closer look at this versatile turfgrass.
A Brief Overview of Fescue Grass
Fescue grasses belong to the genus Festuca and the plant family Poaceae. The most common species used in lawns are tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea), red fescue (Festuca rubra), and fine fescue (Festuca brevipila).
These bunch-type grasses have a deep, dense root system and narrower blades compared to other common turfgrasses. Fescue holds its green color well throughout the seasons, though growth slows considerably in summer heat.
The fine fescues include creeping red, chewings, and hard fescues. They tolerate shade well and are often used in lawn seed mixes for shadier areas.
Tall fescues are more heat and drought tolerant. The cultivars used in lawns are bunch-type rather than spreading by rhizomes. They have excellent wear tolerance.
Red fescues fall between the fine leaf and tall varieties in texture. They also tolerate cooler conditions well.
No matter the species, fescues offer unique benefits that make them popular turfgrass choices:
- Low maintenance requirements – does well with less water and fertilizer
- Good shade and heat tolerance – performs well in a range of conditions
- Wear tolerance – holds up well to foot traffic
- Nice green color – pleasing appearance throughout the seasons
- Slow, clump-forming growth – less mowing and doesn’t spread aggressively
Next, let’s look more closely at tall fescue and why it may be the best fescue species for your lawn.
All About Tall Fescue Grass
Of all the fescue grass species, tall fescue is the most commonly used for lawns. This cool-season grass offers several characteristics that make it an attractive turfgrass option:
Growth Habits
Tall fescue is a bunch-type grass that grows in clumps rather than spreading. Older varieties spread by short underground stems called rhizomes. However, most modern varieties used in lawns are bunch-types that stay where they are planted.
The blades are about 1/8-1/4 inches wide with a rich green color that holds well throughout the seasons. Tall fescue reaches mature heights of 2-4 feet when allowed to grow unmowed.
This deep root system — up to 6 feet — makes it quite drought tolerant for a cool-season lawn grass. However, it still needs about 1 inch of water weekly in summer to stay green and actively growing.
Climate Adaptability
Tall fescue tolerates a wide range of climates, from cool northern states to hot southern summers. That said, it performs best in wetter climates with cool, moist conditions.
It can survive drought due to the deep roots, but the top growth will go dormant and turn brown without adequate summer rainfall or irrigation. Too much heat stress can lead to dieback.
While it tolerates winter cold better than warm-season grasses, the roots can be damaged in severe cold. Tall fescue is best adapted to USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9, though some new cultivars have extended its growing range.
Sun and Shade Tolerance
Tall fescue needs at least 6 hours of direct sun daily for best growth and performance. It doesn’t do well with heavy, dense shade.
However, it tolerates partial shade better than most other cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass. Try to minimize heavy shade on a tall fescue lawn.
Wear Tolerance
The deep roots, thick turfgrass canopy, and bunch-forming growth make tall fescue highly wear-tolerant. It holds up well to foot traffic from kids and pets, along with recreational activity.
It’s a great choice for lawns that will see a lot of activity. However, traffic after rain or irrigation can still damage the grass.
Mowing and Maintenance
The bunch-type growth reduces how often you need to mow a tall fescue lawn. Mow to a height of 3-4 inches and remove no more than one-third of the blade at each mowing session.
This grass requires less nitrogen fertilizer than other cool-season grasses. Apply 1-2 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet annually.
Tall fescue lawns can persist with less irrigation thanks to the deep root system. But provide supplemental water in periods of drought to keep the grass actively growing.
Cultivar Options
There are many improved tall fescue cultivars bred specifically for home lawns. Some examples include:
- Titan and Titanium LS – durable and dense varieties
- Falcon IV and Falcon V – Fifth generation forage-type cultivars
- RTF – Rhizomatous Tall Fescue that spreads by rhizomes
- DLF Pickseed varieties – proven performance and gray leaf spot resistance
Look for cultivars bred for turfgrass use, as forage types won’t provide the finer texture and density desired in a lawn. Talk to your local garden center about recommended varieties for your climate.
Pros and Cons of Tall Fescue Grass
Some of the benefits that make tall fescue a top lawn choice include:
- Deep roots confer good drought tolerance
- Tough, wear-resistant growth habit
- Excellent cold tolerance for a cool-season grass
- Rich green color throughout the seasons
- Lower maintenance requirements
Potential disadvantages to consider:
- Not as shade tolerant as fine fescues
- More disease problems than other fescue species
- Potential for clumping if not mowed correctly
- Top growth will go dormant quickly under drought stress
Proper selection of locally adapted cultivars matched to your specific climate and growing conditions can help avoid disadvantages and maximize the benefits of tall fescue.
When and Where to Use Tall Fescue
Tall fescue’s growth habits and climate adaptability make it suitable for a variety of lawn situations:
Cool, Moist Climates
The bunchgrass growth habit helps tall fescue outcompete weeds. It establishes readily from seed, making fall planting the best timing for cool regions. Select cultivars bred for superior disease resistance.
Warm, Southern Climates
Look for tall fescue cultivars bred for persistence in warm, humid southern climates. Focus on disease resistance and deeper green color. Maintain good drainage and irrigate during droughts to keep the grass actively growing during hot spells.
Sunny Lawns
Tall fescue needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Full sun backyards, parks, athletic fields, and playground areas are ideal locations to take advantage of its durability.
Shaded Lawns
While it prefers full sun, tall fescue tolerates partial shade better than other cool-season grasses. Just avoid dense, deep shade. Or plant tall fescue in mostly sunny areas and use fine fescues where shade is heaviest.
High-Traffic Areas
The wear tolerance and bunching growth habit of tall fescue make it perfect for lawns that will see heavy foot traffic, playing kids, or pets. The clumping growth also reduces mowing frequency.
Roadside Plantings
Tall fescue’s drought tolerance and extensive root system prevent erosion and stabilize soil. It’s commonly used for roadside plantings and grassy medians in hot, dry climates.
Low-Maintenance Lawns
Between the deep roots, low fertility needs, and clump-forming growth, tall fescue lawns require less work and inputs than other turfgrasses. It’s a great low-maintenance option.
No matter your specific needs, there’s likely a tall fescue cultivar well-suited to creating a beautiful, durable lawn for your conditions.
How to Grow Tall Fescue Grass
Tall fescue establishes readily from seed. Proper seedbed prep, timing, seeding rate, and follow-up care during establishment will ensure your new lawn gets off to the healthiest start possible. Here are some tips:
Seedbed Preparation
Prior to seeding, till or dig up the top 4-6 inches of soil. Then rake smooth to prepare an even, firm seedbed. Remove any sticks, rocks, or debris.
Cover with a thin layer of compost to provide nutrients for grass seedlings. Level any low spots so water won’t pool.
Seeding Rate
Use a tall fescue blend seeded at a rate of 6-8 pounds per 1,000 square feet. Or follow package recommendations for the cultivar chosen. This ensures good ground coverage.
Seeding Time
Seed tall fescue in late summer to early fall (August-September) in most regions. Or spring where winters are mild. Cooler conditions help seeds germinate.
Planting Method
Spread seed using a drop or rotary spreader for even coverage. Gently rake into soil no deeper than 1/4 inch. Roll lightly to improve contact with soil.
Watering New Seedlings
Keep the top 1 inch of soil moist until seeds germinate in 7-14 days. Then provide 1-1.5 inches of water weekly until established (4-6 weeks). Tall fescue has a deep root system, so wet the full depth of roots.
Follow-up Care
Don’t mow until the new grass is 3-4 inches tall and well-established. Follow proper mowing, fertilization, drainage, and pest control practices afterward.
With the right prep and care, you’ll enjoy a thick, lush tall fescue lawn. Contact your local cooperative extension for region-specific growing tips.
Troubleshooting Common Tall Fescue Lawn Problems
Like any grass, tall fescue can run into issues. Understanding the most common problems will help you troubleshoot any challenges:
Clumping Growth
This bunchgrass tends to grow in clumps, especially if fertility is too low. Overseed thin areas in spring or fall. Aerate compacted soil. Apply a nitrogen fertilizer to improve density.
Brown Patch
Circular patches of brown, matted grass indicate this fungal disease. Improve drainage and air flow. Water early in the day. Apply fungicides during warm, humid weather when outbreaks occur.
Necrotic Ring Spot
Small, circular patches of tan grass form rings up to 2 feet wide. Aerate soil to improve drainage. Fungicides applied preventatively can help manage it.
Drought Stress
Tall fescue will go dormant and turn brown during droughts without irrigation. Ensure soils drain well. Provide 1 inch of water weekly during hot, dry periods to keep it actively growing.
Mowing Problems
Scalping, uneven cuts, or lawn mower damage can harm grass. Sharpen blades and replace worn mower parts. Mow at proper heights and frequencies. Alter mowing patterns.
Heavy Thatch Buildup
An excess of undecomposed stems and roots can prevent water, air, and nutrient penetration. Dethatch or aerate annually. Adjust cultural practices to promote thatch decomposition.
FAQ About Tall Fescue Lawns
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about growing and caring for tall fescue grass:
Does tall fescue spread?
Most modern tall fescue varieties used in lawns are bunch-type grasses that stay in place rather than spreading aggressively. However, some older types may spread slowly via short rhizomes.
Is tall fescue grass good for shade?
While it prefers full sun, tall fescue tolerates partial shade better than other cool-season grasses. Fine fescues are better for dense shade. Or use tall fescue in mostly sunny areas.
How cold hardy is tall fescue grass?
It has excellent cold tolerance compared to warm-season grasses. Tall fescue commonly persists in northern areas with cold winters. However, extreme cold can damage the roots.
When should I plant tall fescue grass seed?
The optimal planting time is late summer to early fall (August-September) for most regions. Or spring where winters are mild. The cooler temperatures help seeds germinate.
How do I revive tall fescue grass?
Overseed thin areas, aerate compacted soil, apply fertilizer, improve drainage, irrigate during drought, and remedy any disease, insect, or mowing issues. This will help strengthen the lawn over time.
How do I get rid of tall fescue grass?
To remove it, cover with black plastic for several months to kill existing grass. Then re-till the soil and plant desired grass species. Or use a non-selective herbicide like glyphosate.
Is tall fescue good for sports fields?
Yes, it stands up well to heavy foot traffic due to the deep roots, thick canopy, and clumping growth habit. Many parks, athletic fields, and golf courses use tall fescue.
With proper selection, planting, and care, a tall fescue lawn can provide a beautiful, durable turfgrass area for years to come!
Key Takeaways on Tall Fescue Grass
- Tall fescue is a popular cool-season bunchgrass known for durability, wear tolerance, and lower maintenance needs.
- It has excellent cold tolerance but performs best in cool, moist climates. The roots confer good drought tolerance.
- Tall fescue tolerates partial shade but needs at least 6 hours of sun daily. It stands up well to heavy foot traffic.
- Look for improved turf-type cultivars rather than forage types. Plant seeds in fall for best results.
- It can develop common problems like fungal disease, drought stress, and clumpy growth. Proper maintenance helps prevent issues.
- With its many strengths and stress tolerance, tall fescue is a great choice for low-maintenance lawns.
Conclusion
Tall fescue’s many advantages make it a top choice among cool-season lawn grasses. This versatile turfgrass offers a durable, attractive lawn that holds up well to traffic and requires less maintenance. With proper selection of locally adapted cultivars and smart planting and care practices, tall fescue can thrive as a resilient, low-input lawn in a variety of climates and conditions. Understanding its growth habits, optimal environments, and potential challenges allows you to maximize its benefits for your unique lawn needs.