How to Plant Fescue Grass Seed for a Green Lawn

Test your soil. Ohio State University states that soil testing is an inexpensive way to ensure your soil has the proper nutrients before planting fescue and attempting to maintain a green law. Contact your local cooperative extension office for a list of locations that provide soil testing in your area.

Loosen your soil by going over it with a garden tiller. Set the tines so they dig about 3 to 4 inches deep.

Plant the fescue grass seed. Use 6 to 8 lbs. of seed per 1,000 square feet of ground. Use a mechanical seeder to cover the ground. Allow the seed to sit on top of the ground, do not cover it.

Water the area where you planted the fescue for two to three weeks after seeding the grass. Do not over saturate the area, but dampen the soil each day. Allow it to grow until it reaches 3 inches. Mow the fescue to a height of 2 inches.

Apply fertilizer about one month after you plant the fescue. The fertilizer should be 1 lb. of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet according to Richard L. Duble, Turfgrass Specialist at the Texas Cooperative Extension.

Use fertilizer during the summer months and keep your lawn green. Use 1/2 lb. of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet for maintenance. Also, water your fescue grass often. Ensure the water sinks about 3 inches deep and reaches the root.