Fescue Grass

Fescue grass is identified in two major categories as fine-leaved or broad-leaved. The broad leaved Fescue, sometimes referred to as a tall fescue is a bit more heat and drought tolerant than the needle leaved or fine leaved variety. Nevertheless, Fescue grasses will withstand cooler climates and thrive well with minimal maintenance. Fescue grasses generally start their growth with seed, although sod is available and will thrive if installed properly. In each case the Fescues will provide a wonderful carpet in shady areas where many grasses will not perform well. Of all the cool season grasses available, the Fescues are the one variety that performs well in areas that are well treed and hence shady. It should be noted that the broad leaved or tall variety may suffer from some winter die-back in the colder climate regions of the far northern United States.

Since Fescues are a cool season grass, they will not grow well in hot climates and will wither and turn brown if exposed to severe heat or drought. Even if watered well, the Fescues will not provide a carpet of green if exposed to significant heat and sun.

There are well over 30 varieties of Fescue that are adapted to variations of local climate and the desires of the grower, but they retain their cool weather quality no matter the particular variety. Generally the Fescues grow somewhat clumpy and have a course blade although there is a finer bladed variety available. Fescue seed germinates quickly and the grass is well suited to areas that receive considerable use such as sports fields, playgrounds or well used yards where children or athletes are constantly trampling the grass. This grass is often used as an erosion control covering because it will grow well even in soils that are tightly compacted. This grass is generally resistant to pests although it will suffer if weeds are not controlled.

Fescue grasses should be mowed to a height of about two inches. Mowing the grass too short will make it more susceptible to browning during the summer months and if it is allowed to grow too tall the root system will be subjected to stress and the grass will be weakened.

The Fescue grass varieties are a great choice for most of the areas of the United States outside of the South. Several varieties can be mixed together to insure the most vigorous and satisfactory growth. Cool weather and shady areas are the friends of Fescue grasses. Heat and drought are the enemies.