Fine Fescue
Red, hard and chewings fescues are fine-leaved turfgrasses that are suited well for conditions of shade, low soil moisture, low fertility, and soils with unfavorable pH levels. The fine fescues will need well-drained and somewhat dry soils with minimal amounts of management. Extra applications of fertilizer, frequent irrigation or establishment on poorly drained soils can lead to a drop in quality and plant body. With ideal management, the fine fescues could make an attractive turf for your lawn. Fine fescues are seldom seeded by itself. Fine fescues are commonly found in mixtures with the other cool-season turf grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and sometime ryegrass.
| Best Time to Plant | Fall |
| Planting Depth | 1/4 of inch |
| Germination Time | 7 – 21 days |
| Seeding Rate | 5 lbs per 1,000 square feet and 4 lbs for overseeding |
| Color | Bright Green |
| Texture | Fine |
| Shade Tolerance | Excellent |
| Drought Tolerance | Low to moderate |
| Traffic Tolerance | Good |
| Disease Tolerance | Moderate |
| Recommended Mowing Height | 3 to 4 inches |
| Fertility Program | 1.0 – 1.5 lbs Nitrogen per 1,000 sq feet in September, November, and May |
Ok, now that you have chosen your grass seed, take a look at the Planting Grass Seed page for detailed instructions on how to prepare your seed bed and plant your grass seed!
