By: Scott Eckert, County Extension Agent, Horticulture
Remember that tall fescue is a cool-season grass with most of its growing after September
1 and again in the Spring. In the summer months our task as fescue owners is really to just keep it going from spring to fall. With this said here are tips on properly caring for your tall fescue lawns.
MOWING
Turf-type tall fescue: 2 to 3 inches. K-31: 21/2 to 31/2 inches. Raise height to the upper
end of the range during the summer.
PROPER TIMING FERTILIZER APPLICATIONS
September, November, May. For a low maintenance turf only fertilize in September. If a high maintenance lawn is desired apply fertilizer in September, November and May.
WATERING THE RIGHT WAY
Spring: Only water minimally. Summer: Apply 1 to 11/2 inches of water per week. Fall: only as needed to prevent wilting.
CORRECT PLANTING TIME
September or March through April, using 6 to 8 pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet.
DANDELION CONTROL
Herbicides are most effective in the fall.
CRABGRASS CONTROL
Preemergence herbicide before redbud trees reach full bloom in the spring.
GRUB CONTROL
Treat May through July depending on when grubs are present.
AERATING
Early spring or fall, as needed. Core aerating is best.
Timing is everything in growing your lawn. Be sure to take care of it the right way!
