Tall Fescue Lawn Care

Fertilizing

• Tall fescue is relatively tolerant of low fertility, but still benefits from fertilizer. Nitrogen is a key element for tall fescue. Apply nitrogen fertilizer at 1 to 3 lbs. per 1,000 square feet in fall and late winter. A soil test tells you what, if any, other fertilizer your lawn needs. Avoid applying fertilizer during summer, as this can stress your lawn.

Mowing

• Mow tall fescue at 2 inches during fall and spring, and 3 inches in summer, in times of drought and in shady locations. Tall fescue requires frequent mowing. Cut it often enough that only 1/3 of the leaf blades are removed, so you should cut your lawn down to 2 inches when it reaches a height of 3 inches. Avoid cutting tall fescue when wet, especially if your lawn is young.

Watering

• Tall fescue has higher water needs than some other turf grasses and may need watering or irrigation in the summer and in Southern climates. Do not irrigate it unless your lawn shows signs of needing water, such as wilting, browning or rolled leaves. Then apply water enough to wet the soil to a depth of a least 4 inches. Early morning is the best time for watering.

Pest Control

• Although resistant to most lawn diseases and insects, tall fescue is not immune to all pests. Army worms, sod webworms and white grubs are among the more common insect pests. Deal with through a variety of methods. Lawn weeds, such as dandelions and crabgrass, can be problematic, although a dense, healthy turf wards off most weeds. If you se pesticides or herbicides, consult with your state's University Extension and talk to a local expert to help you decide what actions are right for your lawn.

Seeding

• Tall fescue lawns can thin out in time, especially after a particularly hot summer or cold winter, and may need reseeding. Late August through September is the best time to seed, but early spring seeding is also an option. Use no more than 5 lbs. of seed per 1,000 square feet. Keep the soil moist for three weeks after seeding.