Tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) in Grass Montana

Description

Tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) is a cool-season grass known for its durability, drought tolerance, and adaptability to a wide range of soil types.

Description:

• Appearance: Tall fescue forms dense, coarse-textured turf with deep green blades. It has a bunch-type growth habit, meaning it forms clumps rather than spreading by rhizomes or stolons.
• Growth Habit: Tall fescue has deep roots that make it drought-tolerant and resilient to foot traffic. It can thrive in both sun and partial shade conditions.
• Height: Typically grows to a height of 12 to 36 inches, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
• Adaptability: Tall fescue is well-suited for lawns, parks, golf courses, and athletic fields. It performs best in regions with cool, moist climates but can tolerate some heat and drought.

Planting Instructions:

1. Timing: Tall fescue is best planted in early fall or early spring when temperatures are cooler and soil moisture is adequate. Avoid planting during hot, dry periods.
2. Soil Preparation: Prepare the planting area by removing weeds, rocks, and debris. Loosen the soil to a depth of 4 to 6 inches to promote good root growth.
3. Soil pH: Tall fescue prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. Amend the soil as needed to achieve the optimal pH level.
4. Seedbed Preparation: Rake the soil to create a smooth, level surface. Firm the soil lightly with a roller to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
5. Seeding Rate: Tall fescue is typically seeded at a rate of 6 to 8 pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet for new lawns.
6. Seed Distribution: Divide the seed into two equal portions and broadcast half of the seed in parallel rows in one direction. Then broadcast the remaining seed in rows perpendicular to the first.
7. Covering the Seed: Lightly rake the soil to cover the seed to a depth of about 1/4 inch. Avoid burying the seed too deeply, as it may inhibit germination.
8. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination period, which typically takes 7 to 14 days.
9. Establishment: Once the grass reaches a height of 2 to 3 inches, gradually reduce watering frequency to encourage deep root growth.
10. Mowing: Begin mowing when the grass reaches a height of 3 to 4 inches. Set the mower to a height of 2 to 3 inches and mow regularly to maintain the desired height.

Maintenance:

• Fertilization: Tall fescue requires regular fertilization to maintain its lush appearance. Apply a balanced fertilizer according to soil test recommendations.
• Mowing: Tall fescue should be mowed regularly at a height of 2.5 to 3.5 inches to encourage a dense, healthy turf.
• Watering: Provide supplemental irrigation during dry periods to keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering.
• Thatch Control: Tall fescue lawns may develop thatch buildup over time. Core aerating and dethatching can help alleviate this issue.