When to Plant Fescue in Kansas?

Fall Planting

• The best time to plant tall fescue in Kansas falls between early September and mid-October. The earlier in September or October that you can get to the planting, the better. This allows the seeds to germinate and sprout to a healthy height and strength before the cool winter weather sets in. Plant any earlier than September, and the seeds will suffer extra stress from the summer heat and may not germinate. Plant later than October and the grass may be completely killed off by the winter cold.

Spring Planting

• If you cannot plant in the fall, plant the fescue in the spring, between early March and mid-April. You must wait to plant fescue until all threat of frost has passed, or the seeds will not germinate. Fall germination generally takes place within a week, but spring germination can take two weeks or longer, because the soil is still cold. Fescue planted in the spring also battles more weed competition. Make sure you plant before mid-April, or the grass will not be strong enough to stand up to Kansas' summer heat and humidity.

Before Planting

• Before you plant, generally in early- to mid-July, treat all weeds with herbicides. Weeds will compete with the young grass for needed nutrients and water and can cause the fescue to dry out or die before it gets a chance to grow. In August, till the soil to break up any remaining weed roots. Add soil amendments such as lime or sulfur if necessary to change your soil's acidity level (pH). If you are unsure about how to amend your lawn, contact an extension service or garden center for a soil test and instructions. Finally, just before you plant the seeds, fertilize the soil with one pound of nitrogen for every 1,000 square feet of soil.

After Planting

• Lightly water the newly seeded lawn every day. The soil must remain completely moist to encourage germination. Once you can see sprouts poking through the soil, water the seeds once per week, unless it rains; if it rains you will not need to water at all. Fertilize the lawn one month after you plant with ½ pound of soluble nitrogen. Repeat fertilization two months after planting with 1 pound of soluble nitrogen. Do not fertilize again until spring.