How to Mix Tall Fescue & Perennial Rye

When planting grass, it's easy to just say "grass is grass" and plant whatever seed you can find. However, taking the time to research the species of grass you plant can lead to an overall healthier lawn. When seeding, many landscapers mix different species of grass, such as tall fescue and perennial ryegrass, which often makes them more resistant to disease and insect infestation. However, using too much of one kind of grass will cause one species to choke out the other.

Measuring tape
Grass seeds
Broadcast spreader
Sprinkler or hose
Mower

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the length and width of the planting area. Multiply these two numbers together to determine the total square feet of your planting area. The square footage will indicate how much of each grass species you need.
- 2
  Mix the two grass seeds, using 5 lbs. of tall fescue seed for every 1,000 square feet of space, and 3 lbs. of perennial ryegrass seed for every 1,000 square feet of space. The tall fescue needs to make up at least 80 percent of the total mixture so that it has a chance to compete with the ryegrass.
- 3
  Pour the seed mixture into a broadcast spreader and seed your area. Once the seed is fully distributed, water the area well so that the soil is thoroughly moist. Keep the soil moist for the next two weeks to encourage seed germination.
- 4
  Irrigate the grass at least once per week after germination to keep the soil moist; it's okay if it dries out a little in between watering, as long as the grass does not start to turn yellow. Consistent watering will benefit the tall fescue, which needs more water to survive than the ryegrass.
- 5
  Maintain a mowing height of at least 2 ½ to 3 inches each time you mow. Tall fescue will compete better with the ryegrass if there is more surface area to thrive.

Safe Weed Control for St. Augustine Grass

The Best Times to Plant Grass

Growing Grass