How to Grow Creeping Red Fescue for a Lawn

Creeping red fescue is a cool-season turf type that is prized by gardeners for its ability to thrive in shady locations. Because this grass cannot survive prolonged hot weather, however, people in climates with intense summer heat should avoid planting it. Because it spreads slowly, offering little competition to weeds, it is important for all weeds to be removed from the lawn before seeding. Proper site preparation helps creeping red fescue establish strong a root system.

Herbicide
Fertilizer
Tiller
Drop spreader
Compost
Lawn mower

Instructions

- 1
  Remove all weeds and vegetation from the planting site. Spray an herbicide that contains glyphosate, which kills weeds by impeding their ability to produce proteins for growth. Repeat the herbicide application in 10 days. Wait two to four weeks before seeding.
- 2
  Apply a starter fertilizer high in phosphorous — 10-20-10, for example — at a rate of 10 lbs. per 1,000 square feet. Work the fertilizer into the first 2 to 3 inches of top soil.
- 3
  Pour half of the seeds into a drop spreader. Distribute the seed at a rate of 3.5 to 4.5 pounds per 1,000 square feet. Push the drop spreader horizontally over the lawn. Add the rest of the seeds to the drop spreader and apply vertically across the soil.
- 4
  Apply 1/8 inch of compost over the seed to contribute nutrients, keep the seeds moist and protect seeds from wildlife.
- 5
  Water the seeds two to three times a day to keep the soil moist and encourage germination. Reduce watering to one to two times a week when you see seedlings.

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