How to Plant Elijah Blue Fescue

Location

• Elijah blue fescue can thrive in gardens within U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 8. It prefers temperatures in the 40's to 70's. The notable color of this European native looks and grows best in full sun. If you live in an area with hot summers, grow Elijah blue in a partially shady area of the garden that offers protection from the hot afternoon sun. Otherwise, the plant can burn out and die during summer.

Soil

• Elijah blue fescue can thrive in average-to-poor, well-draining soil with a loamy or sandy texture. This ornamental grass tolerates drought and dislikes high humidity and wet soils. Perform a soil test early in the planning process to determine whether your soil pH ranges between 6.8 and 7.7, which is ideal for Elijah blue fescue. Amend the soil according to your test results, and work in a 2-inch layer of compost to promote drainage.

Planting

• Remove the plant from its pot and free up the roots surrounding the root ball. Dig a hole that's equal in depth to the pot that the plant was growing in, and at least twice as wide as the root system. Place the plant in the hole at same depth that it was growing in its container and back-fill the hole. Tamp the soil to eliminate air pockets and water thoroughly. Space multiple plants at least 8 inches apart.

Care

• After planting Elijah blue fescue in your garden, continue watering the soil regularly to keep it moist while the roots establish. Avoid letting the soil stay dry for long periods, because at this point, this can kill the plant. Spread a 2-inch layer of organic mulch around the plants to slow soil-moisture evaporation. Once the plants are established, after about one month, provide them with about 1 inch of water per week. Cut back the plants to 2 inches above the clump in early spring so new growth can set in.