Fescue Grass Vs. Kentucky Bluegrass

Appearance

• Tall fescue is relatively coarse, but newer cultivars have a more refined appearance. The wide blades are a medium green. Kentucky bluegrass has medium-to-fine blades and a rich-green color. Both are cool-season grasses that hold their color until temperatures drop below freezing, and the grasses quickly recover in the spring.

Durability

• Tall fescue holds up against foot traffic and is suited for well-used backyards or light shade. Fescues are clumping grasses. They establish quickly but do not spread to fill in divots or other damaged areas. Kentucky bluegrass is a creeping grass that rapidly recovers from damage and has moderate resistance to wear. It becomes thin and patchy in shade.

Maintenance

• Kentucky bluegrass requires more care than fescue to look its best. While established, fescue tolerates 1 inch of water per week, Kentucky bluegrass may need twice that amount or more. Tall fescue also needs less fertilizer than Kentucky bluegrass, and Kentucky bluegrass is more susceptible to pests and disease. Stressed fescue lawns don't easily recover and often need reseeding.