Fine Fescue (Festuca spp.) in Grass West Virginia

Description

Fine Fescue refers to several species of fescue grass, known for their fine texture and adaptability to shady and low-fertility soils. The main species in this group include Creeping Red Fescue (Festuca rubra), Chewings Fescue (Festuca rubra var. commutata), Hard Fescue (Festuca trachyphylla), and Sheep Fescue (Festuca ovina). Fine fescues are valued for their low maintenance, shade tolerance, and ability to thrive in poor soil conditions.

Characteristics:

• Growth Habit: Bunch-forming (Chewings, Hard, Sheep Fescue) or creeping (Creeping Red Fescue).
• Leaf Texture: Fine.
• Color: Medium to dark green.
• Drought Tolerance: Moderate to high.
• Cold Tolerance: High.
• Shade Tolerance: High; performs well in partial to full shade.
• Maintenance: Low; requires less fertilization and mowing compared to other turfgrasses.

Planting Instructions for Fine Fescue in West Virginia

Site Preparation:

• Soil Testing: Conduct a soil test to determine pH and nutrient levels. Fine Fescue prefers a soil pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
• Weed Control: Eliminate existing weeds by using a non-selective herbicide or by hand-pulling. Allow the herbicide to work for at least two weeks.
• Soil Preparation: Till the soil to a depth of 4-6 inches to loosen it. Remove rocks, debris, and any remaining plant material.
• Amendments: Based on soil test results, incorporate lime (to adjust pH) and fertilizer (to provide necessary nutrients) into the soil.

Seeding:

• Timing: The best time to plant Fine Fescue in West Virginia is in late summer to early fall (mid-August to mid-September). Spring planting (April to early May) is also possible but less ideal.
• Seed Selection: Choose a high-quality seed variety suitable for the local climate. Fine Fescue mixtures are often used to take advantage of the strengths of each species.
• Seeding Rate: Apply seed at a rate of 3-5 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
• Sowing: Use a broadcast spreader to distribute the seeds evenly. For better coverage, apply half the seed in one direction and the other half at a right angle to the first direction.
• Soil Coverage: Lightly rake the soil to cover the seeds with about 1/8 to 1/4 inch of soil. Avoid burying the seeds too deep.
• Rolling: Roll the area with a lawn roller to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.

Watering:

• Initial Watering: Water immediately after seeding to moisten the soil to a depth of 4-6 inches.
• Germination Phase: Keep the soil consistently moist by watering lightly and frequently (1-2 times daily) until seeds germinate, which usually takes 7-21 days.
• Post-Germination: Gradually reduce watering frequency but increase depth. Transition to watering 1-2 times per week, providing about 1 inch of water per week.

Maintenance:

• Mowing: Mow the grass when it reaches a height of 3-4 inches. Set the mower to cut at a height of 2-3 inches to encourage healthy growth. Fine Fescue can be mowed less frequently than other grasses.
• Fertilization: Fine Fescue requires minimal fertilization. Apply a light, balanced fertilizer once in the fall. Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers.
• Weed Control: Use pre-emergent herbicides to prevent weeds and spot-treat existing weeds as needed. Fine Fescue’s dense growth helps suppress weed competition.
• Aeration: Aerate the lawn every few years in the fall to reduce soil compaction and enhance root growth.

By following these planting and care guidelines, you can establish a resilient and attractive Fine Fescue lawn well-suited to the diverse conditions of West Virginia.