Drought-Resistant Creeping Red Fescue

Planting

• When planting red fescue seed, the key component is good seed/soil contact. Make sure the seeds are planted to the correct depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep and completely surrounded with soil. Plant 2 to 3 lbs. of seed per 1,000 square feet of space, increasing coverage for harsher or damaged areas. Firm the soil around the seed after planting to allow the moisture from the soil to penetrate the seed. Plant when temperature conditions are right for creeping red fescue to germinate in the early spring or late fall.

Characteristics

• Quick to establish, creeping red fescue is a nonaggressive grass variety. It's easy to maintain and will overseed well where conditions are favorable. Creeping red fescue is a member of the fine grass family and sprouts dark green narrow blades. Where increased shade tolerance is required and a variety of grass seeds are used, add additional red fescue to the grass mix to help support the growth in lower light.

Care

• Water newly planted red fescue regularly until it's well-established, and fertilize it each year to keep the grass growing strong and dense. Red fescue is attractive when left unmowed in fields or meadows, but when mowing it in the home garden, do not cut red fescue below 1-1/2 inches high, or the grass may be severely damaged.

Environment

• The Northeast is the prime growing location for red fescue, but this grass can be planted in warmer climates. If conditions are hot and humid, the fescue may turn brown or go dormant during the summer season, but it will bounce back again in the fall when whether conditions become cooler and less humid, and when rain is in the forecast.