How to Plant Tall Fescue

Tall fescue is a cool-season grass that is commonly used for lawns, pastures, and other turf applications. It is known for its drought tolerance, disease resistance, and low maintenance requirements. If you are interested in planting tall fescue, here are some important steps to follow.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting tall fescue, it is important to prepare the soil properly. Start by removing any debris or weeds from the area where you wish to plant the grass. Then, it is a good idea to use a soil test kit to determine the pH level of your soil. Tall fescue grows best in soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil pH is too low, you can add lime to raise the pH. If your soil pH is too high, you can add sulfur to lower the pH.

Sowing the Seed

Once your soil is prepared, it is time to sow the tall fescue seed. You can either broadcast the seed by hand or use a seed spreader to ensure even distribution. It is recommended to plant tall fescue seed in the early fall or early spring when temperatures are cooler. This will give the grass enough time to establish before the hot summer months.

Watering and Fertilizing

After sowing the seed, it is important to keep the soil moist until the grass has germinated. This may require watering the area several times a day for the first few weeks. Once the grass has germinated and reached a height of 2-3 inches, you can reduce watering to once or twice a week. It is also important to fertilize the grass regularly to promote healthy growth. Choose a fertilizer specifically formulated for tall fescue and apply it according to the package instructions.

Mowing and Maintenance

Once your tall fescue grass has grown to a height of 4-5 inches, it is time to begin mowing. Set your mower blade to a height of 2-3 inches and mow the grass regularly to maintain this height. It is important to avoid mowing the grass too short, as this can damage the roots and inhibit growth. Additionally, it is recommended to aerate your lawn annually to promote healthy root growth and to remove any thatch buildup.

Conclusion

Planting tall fescue requires proper soil preparation, seed sowing, watering and fertilization, as well as mowing and maintenance. By following these steps, you can successfully grow a beautiful and healthy tall fescue lawn or pasture. Remember to regularly check your soil pH and to address any issues that arise to ensure optimal growth and minimal maintenance.