Today, we are diving deep into the world of grass – not just any grass but the tall fescue grass. Ever strolled across a lawn and felt that lush, cool grass under your feet, well there’s a good chance you were walking on tall fescue grass.
It is known for its durability and adaptability and this grass is making waves in gardens and landscapes alike al over the world.
So what’s the hype about tall fescue grass?
Originating from Europe, it has made its way in many American gardens because of its resistance to drought and its deep green color that stands out even in the winter season. Whether you have a patchy lawn or are just starting out with the remaking of your yard, the tall fescue grass seed could be your ticket to a green haven.
But which seed should I go for is your wuestion, well when it comes to the best tall fescue grass seed know that the market has a variety to offer. Your choice will depend on your region’s climate, your lawn’s soil type and of course your personal preference for grass blade texture. A bit of research and perhaps a chat with your local nursery or gardening center can guide you to the perfect pick.
But wait, there’s more, exactly like Steve Jobs :). There’s a sneaky little one out there called tall fescue quack grass and it’s often mistaken for the tall fescue we all know and love. However, the quack grass variety can be a bit invasive meaning it will grow forever so it’s essential to know what you’re planting. The difference lies in the texture and the growth pattern.
The real and true tall fescue grass has a more uniform look unlike the quack grass which can look a bit out of place in a well-maintained lawn.
So if you dream of a lawn that not only looks great and amazing but can also stand up to some wear and tear going for this version might just be the answer. Remember, the key lies in choosing the best one for your space and keeping an eye out for the mischievous tall fescue quack grass.
What is tall fescue grass?
If you are diping your toes into the world of grasses, let’s chat about one that’s been turning heads, and I mean the best one out there, the tall fescue grass.
So, what is it exactly?
Tall fescue grass is a cool-season perennial plan, meaning that will grow every year, like the begonia rieger or the mandevilla plant and it is known for its durability and resilience. It orginated in Europe back in tha day and it’s found its way to many gardens and lawns, especially in the U.S. Thanks to its ability to withstand drought and heat better than many other cool-season grasses along with its deep roots and a lovely deep green hue, this plant it stands out not just in looks and feel but also in performance.
But that’s not all. The beauty of it lies in its versatility, so whether you have a backyard where the kids love to play football/soccer or a front lawn that needs to look neat and inviting for when friends come to visit, this one steps up to the plate.
In a nutshell? If you’re dreaming of a lawn that’s as tough as it is pretty, tall fescue grass might just be your star player.
Is tall fescue a cool season grass?
To jump straight to it: Is tall fescue a cool season grass? Absolutely, it is!
It thrives and feels at best in the cooler temperatures of spring and fall. Hailing originally from Europe, it sculpted a niche for itself in many gardens and especially in areas where the weather gets a bit nippy and cold from time to time but also throws in some heat.
What’s cool (pun intended!) about tall fescue is its resilience because even though it’s a cool-season plant this amazing patch has a good tolerance for heat and drought compared to its cool-season cousins. So, whether you’re planning a new lawn or thinking of a switch the tall fescue could be your green champion throughout the cooler months and even beyond.
How to get rid of tall fescue without killing grass?
Got a bit of a tall fescue situation in the midst of your perfect lawn, we all know it happens! While tall fescue grass has its merits the problem is that sometimes it pops up where we don’t want it. So, how to tackle it without harming the rest of your lawn? Let me explain:
1. Spot Treatment:
One way to address unwanted tall fescue is to use a non-selective herbicide like the BIO ones, but keep this in minsbecause this is crucial, you’d want to apply it very carefully, targeting only the tall fescue clumps. Remember, “non-selective” means it’ll kill any plant it touches so be sure to keep it away from your african daises. Using a small paintbrush to apply can help avoid unwanted grass casualties.
2. Physical Removal:
For those who prefer elbow grease and a bit of work you can dig out the tall fescue patches. Ensure you get the entire root system to prevent it from making a comeback ever again.
3. Overseeding:
Once you’ve addressed the tall fescue, consider overseeding the area with your desired grass type. By this, I mean putting a lot of seeds in the same place to make sure you cover the area. This will not only help cover any bare spots but also compete with any tall fescue seeds trying to sprout.
4. Pre-emergent Herbicides:
These can be handy if you’re dealing with a recurring tall fescue issue, which is not always the case, but it can happen.. Apply a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring to prevent tall fescue seeds from germinating. Be sure it’s safe for your type of lawn grass.
5. Regular Mowing:
Keeping your lawn mowed can help deter tall fescue as it prefers to grow a bit taller than many grass types but remember, consistency is key. Tall fescue can be persistent, so keep an eye out for new growth and tackle it promptly. With patience and care and of course, love, your lawn can be tall fescue-free and looking its best.
Does tall fescue grass spread?
This one is quite the character in the world of lawns, isn’t it? To the burning question:
Does it spread?
Well, yes and no so let’s dive in a more indepth explanation. Tall fescue grass is what we call a “bunching” or “clumping” grass. This means it grows in tufts or clumps, unlike some other grasses that spread via runners or stolons, this plant primarily expands outward from these clumps which is making its footprint a bit larger over time.
However thsi type doesn’t spread aggressively in the way that, say, Bermuda grass might, with runners going all over the place like crazy. Instead your tall fescue patches will get denser and wider as they grow and while it might spread some via seed if it’s allowed to bloom the small white flowers and set seed, it’s not its main way of taking over a space.
So, if you’re eyeing that patch of tall fescue in your lawn, thinking it might soon invade every corner, take a breather because it’s more about expanding its personal space than plotting a garden takeover.
When to plant tall fescue grass seed?
Ready to dive into the world of tall fescue grass seed or if you already have some experience with gardening, know that timing’s everything when it comes to planting, so let’s get you in the loop.
- The best time to plant tall fescue grass seed is during the early fall. Why, you ask? Well, in early fall that’s the best time because the soil is still warm from the summer not hard like a rock, which aids in faster germination. Plus, the cooler temperatures and (usually) more regular rainfall offer a nurturing environment for those little young grass sprouts to flourish without facing the brutal heat of summer.
- Spring is your next best option if fall doesn’t work out. You just have to be sure to plant early enough so that the grass gets a solid start before the warmer summer months kick in, keeping it away from the harsh summer sun rays. And remember to keep an eye on watering, as spring can sometimes be a tad unpredictable and can give you some heavy rains.
Lastly, a quick tip: Before sowing that tall fescue grass seed make sure your soil is well-prepped. A bit of aeration and maybe a sprinkle of starter fertilizer you’re setting the stage for a lawn that might just be the talk of the town.