Tall Fescue (Festuca arundinacea) in Grass Pennsylvania

Description

Tall Fescue (Festuca arundinacea) is a cool-season grass variety known for its deep root system, drought tolerance, and ability to thrive in a wide range of soil types.

Description:

Tall Fescue forms a coarse-textured turf with deep green, broad blades. It has a bunch-type growth habit, forming clumps rather than spreading through rhizomes or stolons. Tall Fescue is well-adapted to Pennsylvania’s climate and is often used for lawns, pastures, and erosion control.

Planting Instructions:

• Timing : Plant Tall Fescue in Pennsylvania during the late summer or early fall, between mid-August and mid-September. This timing allows for establishment before winter dormancy.
• Soil Preparation: Prepare the planting area by removing any weeds, rocks, and debris. Tall Fescue prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 5.5-7.0). Loosen the soil to a depth of 4-6 inches to promote root growth.
• Seeding : Spread Tall Fescue seeds evenly over the prepared soil using a broadcast spreader. Aim for a seeding rate of 6 to 8 pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet for new lawns or overseeding.
• Soil Contact: Lightly rake the seeds into the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. The seeds should be no more than ¼ inch below the soil surface.
• Watering : Keep the seeded area consistently moist, but not waterlogged, until the grass seedlings establish. Water lightly several times a day to prevent the soil from drying out. Once established, Tall Fescue has good drought tolerance
• Maintenance : Once the grass reaches a height of 3-4 inches, gradually reduce watering frequency. Fertilize according to soil test recommendations, usually in spring and fall. Mow regularly, setting the mower blade to a height of 2.5-3 inches.
• Weed Control : Monitor the lawn regularly for weeds and address them as needed. Tall Fescue’s dense growth helps suppress weed growth, but occasional weed management may still be necessary.

By following these planting instructions, you can establish a resilient and attractive Tall Fescue lawn in Pennsylvania, suitable for a variety of landscape uses.