Taking care of tall fescue lawns

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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!

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