Tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) in Grass Oklahoma

Description

Tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) is a cool-season grass commonly grown in regions with hot summers and cold winters, making it suitable for Oklahoma’s climate.

Planting Instructions:

• Choose the Right Location: Tall fescue performs well in both sun and partial shade but prefers at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day. Select an area with well-drained soil.
• Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 4-6 inches using a tiller or garden fork. Remove any debris, rocks, or weeds from the area. Conduct a soil test to determine pH and fertility levels. Tall fescue prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. Amend the soil with organic matter like compost if necessary.
• Planting: Tall fescue can be established from seeds or sod. For seeds, sow them at a rate of 6-8 pounds per 1,000 square feet. Rake the seeds lightly into the soil, ensuring good seed-to-soil contact. For sod, lay it down evenly, pressing firmly to eliminate air pockets.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist until the grass establishes itself, typically within 2-3 weeks. After establishment, water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering to encourage deep root growth.
• Fertilization : Fertilize tall fescue according to soil test recommendations. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in late fall.
• Mowing : Maintain tall fescue at a height of 2.5-3.5 inches. Mow regularly, removing no more than one-third of the grass blade at a time.
• Weed and Pest Control: Keep an eye out for weeds and pests, addressing them promptly through manual removal, herbicides, or insecticides as needed.
• Winter Care: Tall fescue is a cool-season grass and remains green throughout the winter in Oklahoma. Overseed with a warm-season grass if you desire green coverage during the summer months
• Maintenance: Periodic dethatching and aerating can help maintain a healthy tall fescue lawn by reducing thatch buildup and improving soil aeration.
• Enjoy Your Lawn: With proper care, tall fescue can create a lush, green lawn that withstands foot traffic and thrives in Oklahoma’s climate.