How to Plant Fescue Grass Seed Information

Planting a Prepared Seed Bed

• 1

  Plan to plant fescue grass seed in the early fall or early spring, when daytime temperatures are between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Properly-timed planting ensures the lawn will be ready for active growth once the spring growing season starts.

• 2

  Select an area for planting. Till the area and remove the existing vegetation and any weeds. To prevent regrowth of any weeds in the seed bed, apply a non-selective herbicide. A non-selective herbicide is one that will act on a wider variety of weeds rather than just a few particular varieties. Your garden center can help you select the proper herbicide for your yard.

• 3

  Broadcast the fescue seed on the prepared area. Figure on 5 to 12 pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet of prepared land. Rates vary by fescue variety. Consult your garden center for more information.

• 4

  Cover the area with topsoil. The seed will have a better chance of germinating if you follow sowing the seeds with a topsoil application. Fescue does not require a thick layer of soil. Alternatively, you can rake the area to ensure there is some soil cover.

• 5

  Water the area thoroughly with a hose. To prevent loss due to birds, cover the area with landscape netting. Continue watering daily until your fescue seeds have germinated.

Adding to an Existing Lawn

• 6

  Mow your existing lawn to prepare it for broadcasting fescue seed if you want to thicken your existing lawn. For best possible soil contact, rake up any grass clippings.

• 7

  Aerate your lawn. You can rent a lawn aerator at rental stores and some garden centers. Aerating improves soil contact. As with new plantings, germination rates for fescue seed improve with adequate soil contact.

• 8

  Broadcast the fescue seed on your lawn, following manufacturer instructions. Rake or aerate your lawn a second time to cover the seeds with soil. Alternatively, you can also use a roller on your lawn.

• 9

  Maintain your lawn normally. Water and fertilize as appropriate for your area's conditions and climate.