What to Feed Turf Fescue Grasses

Soil Test

• Conduct a soil test to learn what the soil is lacking, according to gardening writer Walter Reeves. A soil test also determines if your soil is in the correct fescue grass pH range of 6.5 to 7.0, according to North Carolina State University. Collect 1/2 cup of soil in each of 10 different areas of the lawn. Pour the soil into a bucket. Mix the soil and send 1/2 cup to the local cooperative extension office. The cooperative extension office mails back the results and fertilizer recommendations.

Rule-of-Thumb Fertilizer

• Gardeners who do not test their soil can use a rule-of-thumb method for fertilizing. Apply 5 lbs. fertilizer with a NPK amount of 10-10-10 per 1,000 square feet on Feb. 15, as suggested by the North Caroline State University. This balanced fertilizer provides fescue grass with nutrients supporting healthy growth and its green color. Wait for the lawn to green up before applying the fertilizer. If the lawn is still dormant in February, wait a few weeks.

How to Fertilize

• Fertilize your lawn by pouring half of the recommended amount of fertilizer into a rotary spreader. Push the rotary spreading horizontally over the lawn area. Apply the second half vertically, so that you achieve an even coverage. Pick a day that is not too hot to apply your fertilizer and avoid applying fertilizer to water-stressed lawns. Water the lawn after applying the fertilizer, so that the nutrients and sink into the soil.

Frequency

• Fertilize your fescue lawn again on Sept. 15 with a fertilizer with a NPK amount of 10-10-10 per 1,000 square feet, as recommended by North Carolina State University. Apply a third fertilizer application on Nov. 15. Use 10 lbs. of fertilizer with a NPK amount of 10-10-10 per 1,000 square feet. This fall fertilizer application is the most important one of the year, according to North Carolina State University. It helps fescue roots grow during the harsh winter weather.