Tall Fescue (Festuca arundinacea) in Grass New Hampshire

Description

Tall Fescue (Festuca arundinacea) is a versatile cool-season grass known for its durability, drought resistance, and adaptability to a wide range of soil types. It forms a dense, lush turf that is well-suited for lawns, parks, and athletic fields.

Description:

• Appearance: Tall Fescue has broad, coarse-textured blades that form a dense, carpet-like turf. It produces a rich, dark green color that is highly appealing.
• Growth Habit: Tall Fescue has a bunch-type growth habit, forming clumps rather than spreading by rhizomes or stolons. It is known for its durability and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic.
• Adaptability: Tall Fescue performs best in regions with cool, moist climates but can tolerate heat, drought, and poor soil conditions. It is well-suited for full sun to partial shade and is often used in areas with moderate to heavy shade.

Planting Instructions:

1. Timing: Plant Tall Fescue seeds in early fall or early spring when soil temperatures are cooler and moisture levels are sufficient. Avoid planting during the hot summer months or when frost is expected.
2. Site Selection: Choose a planting site with well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Tall Fescue prefers fertile, loamy soil but can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
3. Soil Preparation: Prepare the planting area by removing weeds, rocks, and debris. Loosen the soil to a depth of 4 to 6 inches using a garden tiller or rake to promote good root growth and ensure proper soil aeration.
4. Seed Distribution: Broadcast Tall Fescue seed evenly over the prepared soil surface at a rate of 5 to 8 pounds per 1,000 square feet for new lawns or overseeding existing lawns. Use a seed spreader or hand broadcaster to ensure even coverage.
5. Covering the SeedLightly rake the soil to cover the seed to a depth of about 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Press the soil lightly to ensure good seed-to-soil contact, which is essential for germination.
6. Watering: Water the seeded area lightly immediately after planting to settle the soil and provide moisture for germination. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination period, which typically takes 10 to 14 days.
7. Establishment: Once established, Tall Fescue requires regular watering to encourage deep root growth and establishment. Gradually reduce watering frequency as the grass becomes established, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
8. Mowing: Begin mowing Tall Fescue when it reaches a height of 3 to 4 inches. Mow at a height of 2 to 3 inches, removing no more than one-third of the leaf blade at each mowing. Mow more frequently during periods of active growth and less frequently during periods of drought or dormancy.

Maintenance:

• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer according to soil test recommendations to promote healthy growth and vigor. Follow manufacturer instructions for application rates and timing, typically in early spring and late fall.
• Weed Control: Monitor for weeds and hand-pull or spot-treat them as needed to prevent them from competing with the Tall Fescue. Avoid using herbicides that may harm the grass.
• Disease and Pest Management: Tall Fescue is relatively resistant to diseases and pests but may be susceptible to certain issues under stressed conditions. Monitor for signs of stress or damage and take appropriate measures if issues arise.
• Overseeding: Overseed the Tall Fescue lawn annually to maintain density and fill in bare spots. Overseed in early fall or early spring using the same seeding rate as for establishing new lawns.