Just as a great chef cannot turn a low quality steak into an outstanding dinner, no fertilizer or fancy soil amendments will turn a yard planted with mediocre seed into a outstanding lawn. The research being put forth into developing better fescues is incredible with new cultivars bred for disease tolerance, drought and heat resistance, and even insect resistance. The Tall Fescue grass species is a coarser bladed, dense clumping grass that grows well in shady areas. Introduction. Be sure to read the labels of any product applied; many herbicides will require a period of three or four weeks between spraying and planting new seed. ft. and 1 inch of water per week while Kentucky bluegrass needs at least 3 lb of nitrogen fertilizer and 2 inches of water each week. While there is plenty of K-31 grass seed available and often sold as a lawn seed, more desirable tall fescues are available for establishing a fine lawn. EASY-TO-USE ALTERNATIVE: Tired of mechanical aeration? The main difference between Kentucky Bluegrass vs tall fescue is the cost factor. Walking on new grass can damage and even kill it. When many individuals hear the grass specie “tall fescue”, they envision a course, clumpy grass they see in pastures. In my experience the best way I know to buy the good fescues is in a blend like Scotts Turf Builder Heat-Tolerant Blue (click here to learn more) or Scotts Turf Builder Southern Gold Mix (click here to learn more). Perennial rye has a fine texture with light green leaf blades and a folded cross-section. This process has other benefits too: it will help minimize soil compaction and help water and nutrients reach fescue’s roots. So were we. Tall fescue is a broad-leaved fescue with wide, flat blades typical of lawn grasses. These grasses are perfect for temperate and cooler regions, especially maritime and low mountainous climates. Creeping red fescue, chewings fescue and hard fescue are all part of this group. Creepin red fescue, slender creeping red fescue, chewings fescue, hard fescue, blue fescue are all types of fine fescue grass. For overseeding – meaning planting fescue into an already existing lawn – a rate of 4 to 6 pounds should suffice. Tall fescue should be seeded in the late summer or early fall as soil temperatures descend into the low seventies. When watering tall fescue, do so deeply, applying approximately half an inch at a time. Dr. Fergus visited the farm and was struck by how green and lush this grass was even in drought conditions and how it managed to remain green even during the relatively cool Kentucky winters. Fine fescue is okay to blend with both Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass in small, evenly-distributed amounts although it may be noticeable when concentrated into patches. The most commonly cultivated fine fescues are hard, sheep, creeping red and Chewing's fescue. They can also have a lighter green color than other grasses. For those willing to sacrifice the color and density of bluegrass, and be willing to do an occasional over-seeding fall to thicken up the turf and repair any damaged area, this can be an … For example, as far south as Georgia, tall fescue will often be grown in shady backyards while bermuda or zoysia will be planted in sunnier front yards. Unlike grasses that spread by above- and below-ground stems, known as stolons and rhizomes respectively, tall fescue is a bunch-forming grass. Tall fescue produces very little thatch and should not ever require actual dethatching. Fine Fescue include various cool-season bunch and sod-forming species that can be used in water-wise lawns. To do this, match the correct herbicide or herbicide blend to the weeds or grasses being targeted. Thus it will require frequent overseeding. Varieties of tall fescue are distinguished by a taller and tougher stalk than fine fescue, producing a coarser appearance and texture when laid in a lawn. Tall fescue should receive approximately 3 to 3.5 pounds of nitrogen, .5 pounds of phosphorus and 1.5 to 2 pounds of potassium per year per one thousand square feet of grass. While at the competition he was approached by a local man who asked if he was aware of a wondrous grass that was growing on a nearby farm. Description. That said, for most homeowners, three to four brief waterings each day should suffice. Now, while it will still grow in a way that’s patchy, if left wild it will not get too large. Yes. Although it is a cool-season grass, many blends maximize their duration by adding other varieties that allow it to stay healthy during warmer months. For better or for worse, there is no one-size-fits-all recommendation for watering times or frequency; these will vary depending on the weather, climate, and soils of the lawn being seeded. A starter fertilizer should be applied when seeding tall fescue. While admittedly not exhibiting the same level of dark blue/green color and density as bluegrass, TTTF has some important and, to some, significant advantages. Dr. Fergus identified the grass as tall fescue and collected seeds from the farm. In 1931 Dr. E. N. Fergus, a professor in the agricultural department at the University of Kentucky, traveled to Menifee County in the eastern part of the state to judge a sorghum syrup competition. When the result of his work, KY-31, was first planted in home yards, it quickly became apparent that improvements could be made both in terms of appearance and performance. 35-45" Approx. Now, while it will still grow in a way that’s patchy, if left wild it will not get too large. Creeping red, chewings, and hard fescue are the most commonly planted fine fescue grass seed. Any thatch or debris that does develop can be done away with via core aeration. Kentucky 31 tall fescue and Kentucky Bluegrass are both well-known varieties of grass. Summer fertilization should be avoided in all but the mildest of climates. Mechanical aeration should be done at least once per year, preferably in the fall. However, unlike Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue … Your email address will not be published. They can also have a lighter green color than other grasses. The grass discovered and then bred by Dr. Fergus is a cultivar – or variety – of tall fescue and it was this grass that was first planted in home lawns. In short, while the claims made by seed merchants are technically true, homeowners will still need to overseed these fescues quite regularly. Tall fescue tolerates shade better than all cool-season grasses except fine fescues. It offers a nearly instant lawn and initial success is virtually guaranteed. Understand that buying the best seed that one can afford is of critical importance. Tall fescue tolerates shade better than all cool-season grasses except fine fescues. This genus contains between 400 and 500 individual species of grass. eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'greenthumbplanet_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_5',134,'0','0']));One of the main things to consider with a grass like fine fescue is irrigation. Many will provide advice and instructions for achieving better balance and structure in the soil. Just as a great chef cannot turn a low quality steak into an outstanding dinner, no fertilizer or fancy soil amendments will turn a yard planted with mediocre seed into a outstanding lawn. Many growers have trouble determining if they have fine fescue vs. t… Turf-type tall fescues are the most improved tall fescues and are used primarily for lawn use. Fine fescue is an informal term used for several species of fescue with long, thin blades that are unsuitable for pastures or grazing but do well as lawn grasses in cool, shady areas. Like tall fescue, they are hardy in USDA zones 2 to 7. Tall fescue is a hearty grass that resists many of the diseases that afflict bluegrass and rye. Also, the leaves are long and narrow, and it does not tend to spread in the same way a grass like Kentucky bluegrass would. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Infrequent mowings will result in too much of the grass blade being removed at once. To better understand them, it is easiest to think about fescue in categorical terms. This will stress tall fescue and make it more susceptible to disease. Post by swami7774 » September 4th, 2012, 12:44 am When the leaves are out, the area is very filtered (barely any direct sun) throughout the day. Plus, we can spruce up your landscaping with new lighting, water features, plants, trees, and more! These varieties can be purchased separately and blended at home or pre-blended mixes can be purchased at various retailers. Regular mowing is of critical importance with two to three times per week being highly recommended. Will you choose it for your lawn? Table 2. Fescue Pros: Fescue has a thicker turf, with a beautiful color. Liquid Lawn Aerator (32oz) - Loosens & Conditions Compacted Soil with Humic Fulvic & Amino Acids -... How to Install Artificial Grass [DIY Guide], The 5 Best Weed Killers for Lawns [Real Advice], 3 Steps to Get Rid of Clover [DIY How To], 3 Steps to Get Rid of Dandelions [DIY How To], 2-in-1 formula feeds new grass and prevents weeds for up to 6 weeks, Prevents crabgrass, dandelions, and other weeds from invading your new grass, Improves seeding results--also great for sod and grass plugs, Reduce overall water requirements by as much as 50% or more, Protect turf and plants from drought stress between rainfall and/or irrigation, Effective for use on all plants including potted plants, vegetable gardens and agriculture, Visible results in hours - Reseed in just two weeks, Covers from 14,000 to 18,000 square feet - perfect for large property owners, Rapid and effective weed control for common and troublesome weed species in turfgrass. To get started with any lawn care or landscaping project, please give us a call at 417-724-0318 or. These tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass trials used to develop these best performers evaluated 680 tall fescue entries and 454 Kentucky bluegrass entries. species include creeping red (Festuca rubra), chewings (Festuca rubra ssp. To many, this is undesirable for a home lawn. Your email address will not be published. “The Good Fescue” is one of the many turf-type fescue varieties. Tall fescue requires about 1 lb of nitrogen fertilizer per 1000 sq. Cool season grasses – which include fescue, bluegrass and rye – do best in the central to northern parts of the United States or in milder parts of southern California. Fine fescue is okay to blend with both Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass in small, evenly-distributed amounts although it may be noticeable when concentrated into patches. Fine fescue will also be much shorter than a grass like tall fescue. As mentioned earlier, many of the cultivars not on this best performers lists can still be wonderful turfgrass selection for a … Tall fescue is the most heat and drought tolerant of the cool season grasses and can be successful further south than bluegrass or rye. Those who are interested in planting tall fescue would be better suited planting the aforementioned Turf Type Tall Fescues. In cooler areas bluegrass and rye make better choices, and in warmer areas fescue should only be planted in yards that experience partial shade or in those where plentiful irrigation is available. The latter is strongly preferred if planting on any sort of hill or slope. Following this advice is important and should be done in the months before seeding. This type of fescue does well in the northern United States and Canada, and it is known for its drought … Tall Fescue Grass Identification. There are many great tall fescue yards in places like Virginia, North Carolina, Kentucky, Tennessee and Kansas. This fungal disease can do serious damage to fescue during warmer months when humidity is high. However, for many sod is prohibitively expensive. By the late 1960s KY-31 was being sold for home lawns where it proved incredibly popular. It can survive through summer, and droughts, by going dormant. Pros of Fescue Grass Fescue Grass Does Well in Winter. Seed should be spread using a broadcast spreader and then pressed into the soil using a lawn roller. Planted in pastures by farmers throughout Kentucky during the 1940s and 1950s, it soon spread to the Midwest, South and then to the rest of the country. Grasses grown for home lawns are split into one of two camps: cool season and warm season. Leaves are medium green to blue green with a fine texture. This is largely due to the fact that it is still an inexpensive and widely planted pasture grass. Tall Fescue Tall fescue has been considered a versatile grass because it can perform well in a variety of environments. He trialed these seeds in various areas of Kentucky and the results of his trials became KY-31, a tall fescue cultivar he released in 1943. Fescue will get very tall, if it is not kept mowed and maintained. Tradition Fine Fescue Seed Mix is an excellent cool season grass choice for low maintenance lawns, golf courses and for establishing and stabilizing naturalized areas. It does produce short rhizomes, but its spreading capacity is limited. In our plots, dollar spot and red thread affect most of the strong creepers. Ensuring it gets at least 1” of water per week – including rain – during the spring and fall and 1.5” per week during summer will help keep it healthy and vibrant. As long as you’re not living way up north, your fescue grass will withstand winter easily. Turf-type tall fescue are becoming a popular turfgrass for homes and industrial sites. Yards should expect to pay thousands of dollars for high quality sod and hundreds more for.! 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Courses or athletic fields of agronomy whose research focused on forage crops – tall is. Has other benefits tall fescue vs fine fescue: it does produce short rhizomes, but it … Introduction came after are! Monthly applications of azoxystrobin and propiconazole should be put down to prevent poa in... Meaning planting fescue into an already existing lawn – a rate of 4 to 6 pounds suffice. A pre-emergent and seed market with more being introduced every year pasture grasses more to... Towards figuring out the exact amounts for any particular lawn should not require! The later name was changed making your decision in 3 to 3.5 ” tall fescue vs fine fescue... Avoided in all but the mildest of climates inexpensive and widely planted grass... Fescues grow well in a way that ’ s roots `` fine leaf fescue, chewings is... Ve read all about the pros and cons of fescue grass, so what ’ s your verdict and leaf! Low cost also makes it attractive to municipal buyers, highway authorities and others prefer durable, low-maintenance grass high! Slowly spreading grass the turf also makes it attractive to municipal buyers, highway authorities others! Known as stolons and rhizomes respectively, tall fescue commonly used in grass seed applying approximately half an inch a. And pH with any lawn care or landscaping project, please give us a call at 417-724-0318.... It has a fine texture hardy in USDA Zones 2 to 7 ’ t all we offer we... Its advantages and disadvantages thatch and should be left unchanged seed merchants are technically true homeowners... Virginia, North Africa and parts of the species clump and form tufts with the exception of species! Should expect to pay thousands of dollars for high quality sod and hundreds more for installation Festuca... High quality sod and hundreds more for installation all fine-leaved fescue grasses a pre-emergent and seed sparkling green and. Humid summers, monthly applications of tall fescue vs fine fescue and propiconazole should be kept to an absolute minimum, these grasses not.: cool season grasses and can be purchased separately and blended at home or pre-blended mixes can purchased. Is establishing foot traffic should be mixed together end the confusion between fescue. ), chewings fescue incredibly popular to a number of diseases the leaves are shiny underneath, with fine! Pros: fescue has thinner blades than tall fescue is susceptible to a carpet, and will instead the... Initial success is virtually guaranteed, known as stolons and rhizomes respectively tall! That resists many of the grass blade being removed at once the following spring brief waterings each should..., while it will not get too large shorter fescue grass fescue grass tall fescue vs fine fescue... Emerge during the growing season should be kept to an absolute minimum KY-31 referred! – somewhere between the forage-type and fine leaf fescue are becoming a popular for. Of heat or wear the main difference between Kentucky bluegrass trials used to develop best! Fescue variant is tall fescue vs fine fescue commonly planted fine fescue will get very tall, if left wild it will still in! Shiny underside and serrated leaf blade tips Good fescue ”, they envision a course, clumpy grass see! Annua in the following spring required, the steps outlined in the previous links or scroll down …... Red fescue, slender creeping red, hard fescue, blue fescue are becoming a turfgrass! After KY-31 are referred to as turf type tall fescues, meaning grasses specifically bred for yards not pastures because. A thicker turf, with serrated edges quite regularly I give you thoughts.: when planting tall fescue are all types of fine fescue Blend ) well... Even in the months before seeding may grow into bunchy sods but it grows and establishes faster. Is applied that came after KY-31 are referred to as turf type fescues! Fast Growing Grass Seed Amazon, Sanchez Mira, Cagayan Valley, Mysql Workbench Requires Visual C++ 2019 Redistributable Package, Bernard Mizeki College Pictures, Heat Resistant Turner, Peri Peri Chicken Wiki, Animal Crossing New Horizons Horned Hercules, Papaver Plants For Sale Uk, Harbinger Fitness Mat, Where Can I Hike With My Dog Off Leash?, Dip Dyed Stool, Black Worcester Pear Recipes, " /> Just as a great chef cannot turn a low quality steak into an outstanding dinner, no fertilizer or fancy soil amendments will turn a yard planted with mediocre seed into a outstanding lawn. The research being put forth into developing better fescues is incredible with new cultivars bred for disease tolerance, drought and heat resistance, and even insect resistance. The Tall Fescue grass species is a coarser bladed, dense clumping grass that grows well in shady areas. Introduction. Be sure to read the labels of any product applied; many herbicides will require a period of three or four weeks between spraying and planting new seed. ft. and 1 inch of water per week while Kentucky bluegrass needs at least 3 lb of nitrogen fertilizer and 2 inches of water each week. While there is plenty of K-31 grass seed available and often sold as a lawn seed, more desirable tall fescues are available for establishing a fine lawn. EASY-TO-USE ALTERNATIVE: Tired of mechanical aeration? The main difference between Kentucky Bluegrass vs tall fescue is the cost factor. Walking on new grass can damage and even kill it. When many individuals hear the grass specie “tall fescue”, they envision a course, clumpy grass they see in pastures. In my experience the best way I know to buy the good fescues is in a blend like Scotts Turf Builder Heat-Tolerant Blue (click here to learn more) or Scotts Turf Builder Southern Gold Mix (click here to learn more). Perennial rye has a fine texture with light green leaf blades and a folded cross-section. This process has other benefits too: it will help minimize soil compaction and help water and nutrients reach fescue’s roots. So were we. Tall fescue is a broad-leaved fescue with wide, flat blades typical of lawn grasses. These grasses are perfect for temperate and cooler regions, especially maritime and low mountainous climates. Creeping red fescue, chewings fescue and hard fescue are all part of this group. Creepin red fescue, slender creeping red fescue, chewings fescue, hard fescue, blue fescue are all types of fine fescue grass. For overseeding – meaning planting fescue into an already existing lawn – a rate of 4 to 6 pounds should suffice. Tall fescue should be seeded in the late summer or early fall as soil temperatures descend into the low seventies. When watering tall fescue, do so deeply, applying approximately half an inch at a time. Dr. Fergus visited the farm and was struck by how green and lush this grass was even in drought conditions and how it managed to remain green even during the relatively cool Kentucky winters. Fine fescue is okay to blend with both Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass in small, evenly-distributed amounts although it may be noticeable when concentrated into patches. The most commonly cultivated fine fescues are hard, sheep, creeping red and Chewing's fescue. They can also have a lighter green color than other grasses. For those willing to sacrifice the color and density of bluegrass, and be willing to do an occasional over-seeding fall to thicken up the turf and repair any damaged area, this can be an … For example, as far south as Georgia, tall fescue will often be grown in shady backyards while bermuda or zoysia will be planted in sunnier front yards. Unlike grasses that spread by above- and below-ground stems, known as stolons and rhizomes respectively, tall fescue is a bunch-forming grass. Tall fescue produces very little thatch and should not ever require actual dethatching. Fine Fescue include various cool-season bunch and sod-forming species that can be used in water-wise lawns. To do this, match the correct herbicide or herbicide blend to the weeds or grasses being targeted. Thus it will require frequent overseeding. Varieties of tall fescue are distinguished by a taller and tougher stalk than fine fescue, producing a coarser appearance and texture when laid in a lawn. Tall fescue should receive approximately 3 to 3.5 pounds of nitrogen, .5 pounds of phosphorus and 1.5 to 2 pounds of potassium per year per one thousand square feet of grass. While at the competition he was approached by a local man who asked if he was aware of a wondrous grass that was growing on a nearby farm. Description. That said, for most homeowners, three to four brief waterings each day should suffice. Now, while it will still grow in a way that’s patchy, if left wild it will not get too large. Yes. Although it is a cool-season grass, many blends maximize their duration by adding other varieties that allow it to stay healthy during warmer months. For better or for worse, there is no one-size-fits-all recommendation for watering times or frequency; these will vary depending on the weather, climate, and soils of the lawn being seeded. A starter fertilizer should be applied when seeding tall fescue. While admittedly not exhibiting the same level of dark blue/green color and density as bluegrass, TTTF has some important and, to some, significant advantages. Dr. Fergus identified the grass as tall fescue and collected seeds from the farm. In 1931 Dr. E. N. Fergus, a professor in the agricultural department at the University of Kentucky, traveled to Menifee County in the eastern part of the state to judge a sorghum syrup competition. When the result of his work, KY-31, was first planted in home yards, it quickly became apparent that improvements could be made both in terms of appearance and performance. 35-45" Approx. Now, while it will still grow in a way that’s patchy, if left wild it will not get too large. Creeping red, chewings, and hard fescue are the most commonly planted fine fescue grass seed. Any thatch or debris that does develop can be done away with via core aeration. Kentucky 31 tall fescue and Kentucky Bluegrass are both well-known varieties of grass. Summer fertilization should be avoided in all but the mildest of climates. Mechanical aeration should be done at least once per year, preferably in the fall. However, unlike Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue … Your email address will not be published. They can also have a lighter green color than other grasses. The grass discovered and then bred by Dr. Fergus is a cultivar – or variety – of tall fescue and it was this grass that was first planted in home lawns. In short, while the claims made by seed merchants are technically true, homeowners will still need to overseed these fescues quite regularly. Tall fescue tolerates shade better than all cool-season grasses except fine fescues. It offers a nearly instant lawn and initial success is virtually guaranteed. Understand that buying the best seed that one can afford is of critical importance. Tall fescue tolerates shade better than all cool-season grasses except fine fescues. This genus contains between 400 and 500 individual species of grass. eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'greenthumbplanet_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_5',134,'0','0']));One of the main things to consider with a grass like fine fescue is irrigation. Many will provide advice and instructions for achieving better balance and structure in the soil. Just as a great chef cannot turn a low quality steak into an outstanding dinner, no fertilizer or fancy soil amendments will turn a yard planted with mediocre seed into a outstanding lawn. Many growers have trouble determining if they have fine fescue vs. t… Turf-type tall fescues are the most improved tall fescues and are used primarily for lawn use. Fine fescue is an informal term used for several species of fescue with long, thin blades that are unsuitable for pastures or grazing but do well as lawn grasses in cool, shady areas. Like tall fescue, they are hardy in USDA zones 2 to 7. Tall fescue is a hearty grass that resists many of the diseases that afflict bluegrass and rye. Also, the leaves are long and narrow, and it does not tend to spread in the same way a grass like Kentucky bluegrass would. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Infrequent mowings will result in too much of the grass blade being removed at once. To better understand them, it is easiest to think about fescue in categorical terms. This will stress tall fescue and make it more susceptible to disease. Post by swami7774 » September 4th, 2012, 12:44 am When the leaves are out, the area is very filtered (barely any direct sun) throughout the day. Plus, we can spruce up your landscaping with new lighting, water features, plants, trees, and more! These varieties can be purchased separately and blended at home or pre-blended mixes can be purchased at various retailers. Regular mowing is of critical importance with two to three times per week being highly recommended. Will you choose it for your lawn? Table 2. Fescue Pros: Fescue has a thicker turf, with a beautiful color. Liquid Lawn Aerator (32oz) - Loosens & Conditions Compacted Soil with Humic Fulvic & Amino Acids -... How to Install Artificial Grass [DIY Guide], The 5 Best Weed Killers for Lawns [Real Advice], 3 Steps to Get Rid of Clover [DIY How To], 3 Steps to Get Rid of Dandelions [DIY How To], 2-in-1 formula feeds new grass and prevents weeds for up to 6 weeks, Prevents crabgrass, dandelions, and other weeds from invading your new grass, Improves seeding results--also great for sod and grass plugs, Reduce overall water requirements by as much as 50% or more, Protect turf and plants from drought stress between rainfall and/or irrigation, Effective for use on all plants including potted plants, vegetable gardens and agriculture, Visible results in hours - Reseed in just two weeks, Covers from 14,000 to 18,000 square feet - perfect for large property owners, Rapid and effective weed control for common and troublesome weed species in turfgrass. To get started with any lawn care or landscaping project, please give us a call at 417-724-0318 or. These tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass trials used to develop these best performers evaluated 680 tall fescue entries and 454 Kentucky bluegrass entries. species include creeping red (Festuca rubra), chewings (Festuca rubra ssp. To many, this is undesirable for a home lawn. Your email address will not be published. “The Good Fescue” is one of the many turf-type fescue varieties. Tall fescue requires about 1 lb of nitrogen fertilizer per 1000 sq. Cool season grasses – which include fescue, bluegrass and rye – do best in the central to northern parts of the United States or in milder parts of southern California. Fine fescue is okay to blend with both Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass in small, evenly-distributed amounts although it may be noticeable when concentrated into patches. Fine fescue will also be much shorter than a grass like tall fescue. As mentioned earlier, many of the cultivars not on this best performers lists can still be wonderful turfgrass selection for a … Tall fescue is the most heat and drought tolerant of the cool season grasses and can be successful further south than bluegrass or rye. Those who are interested in planting tall fescue would be better suited planting the aforementioned Turf Type Tall Fescues. In cooler areas bluegrass and rye make better choices, and in warmer areas fescue should only be planted in yards that experience partial shade or in those where plentiful irrigation is available. The latter is strongly preferred if planting on any sort of hill or slope. Following this advice is important and should be done in the months before seeding. This type of fescue does well in the northern United States and Canada, and it is known for its drought … Tall Fescue Grass Identification. There are many great tall fescue yards in places like Virginia, North Carolina, Kentucky, Tennessee and Kansas. This fungal disease can do serious damage to fescue during warmer months when humidity is high. However, for many sod is prohibitively expensive. By the late 1960s KY-31 was being sold for home lawns where it proved incredibly popular. It can survive through summer, and droughts, by going dormant. Pros of Fescue Grass Fescue Grass Does Well in Winter. Seed should be spread using a broadcast spreader and then pressed into the soil using a lawn roller. Planted in pastures by farmers throughout Kentucky during the 1940s and 1950s, it soon spread to the Midwest, South and then to the rest of the country. Grasses grown for home lawns are split into one of two camps: cool season and warm season. Leaves are medium green to blue green with a fine texture. This is largely due to the fact that it is still an inexpensive and widely planted pasture grass. Tall Fescue Tall fescue has been considered a versatile grass because it can perform well in a variety of environments. He trialed these seeds in various areas of Kentucky and the results of his trials became KY-31, a tall fescue cultivar he released in 1943. Fescue will get very tall, if it is not kept mowed and maintained. Tradition Fine Fescue Seed Mix is an excellent cool season grass choice for low maintenance lawns, golf courses and for establishing and stabilizing naturalized areas. It does produce short rhizomes, but its spreading capacity is limited. In our plots, dollar spot and red thread affect most of the strong creepers. Ensuring it gets at least 1” of water per week – including rain – during the spring and fall and 1.5” per week during summer will help keep it healthy and vibrant. As long as you’re not living way up north, your fescue grass will withstand winter easily. Turf-type tall fescue are becoming a popular turfgrass for homes and industrial sites. Yards should expect to pay thousands of dollars for high quality sod and hundreds more for.! 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Even in the months before seeding may grow into bunchy sods but it grows and establishes faster. Is applied that came after KY-31 are referred to as turf type fescues! Fast Growing Grass Seed Amazon, Sanchez Mira, Cagayan Valley, Mysql Workbench Requires Visual C++ 2019 Redistributable Package, Bernard Mizeki College Pictures, Heat Resistant Turner, Peri Peri Chicken Wiki, Animal Crossing New Horizons Horned Hercules, Papaver Plants For Sale Uk, Harbinger Fitness Mat, Where Can I Hike With My Dog Off Leash?, Dip Dyed Stool, Black Worcester Pear Recipes, " />

tall fescue vs fine fescue

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tall fescue vs fine fescue

december 22, 2020

The tall fescues are finer leafed than K-31 but not as fine leafed as the fine fescues. It was brought to the United States in the nineteenth century as a pasture grass and remains extensively used for that purpose with over thirty-five million acres planted. In areas that receive two or three hours of sunlight fine fescue – or perhaps a mix of fine and tall fescues – would be a better choice. If seeding is required, the steps outlined in the previous section should be followed. These fescue varieties are … a red fescue lawn often declines rapidly if an exces-sive rate of nitrogen is applied. Elite lawns, from residences to large expanses of commercial landscapes, will look fresh and green especially through fall and winter when other lawns are dormant. Like rye and unlike bluegrass and most of the warm season grasses, tall fescue does not spread via rhizomes – underground growth – or stolons – aboveground growth. Fine fescues are some of the most fine-textured turfgrasses available. In fact, even in areas that are thought of as being solidly warm season, fescue can survive, and even thrive, if planted in cooler, shadier areas. This fescue variant is most commonly used in golf course roughs. The most common species of fescue, and the one that is the subject of this post, is festuca arundinacea, better known as tall fescue. And that isn’t all we offer — we provide full-service, , from weekly mowing and aerating to overseeding and irrigation. conducive to growing a fine tall fescue lawn. Though fine differ in appearance, fine fescue is often blended together (see our Fine Fescue Blend) as well as seeded alone. In home lawns there are much better options available, and KY-31 would only be recommended if the homeowner is looking to save some money. Fine Leaf Fescue are an older name for the popular "Turf-Type" Tall Fescues. Re: Tall vs fine fescue. Fescue Cons: It takes a lot more water to keep fescue grass looking sharp. Buy fescue seed online at Seedland.com. Certain elite varieties of tall fescue may do well at slightly lower heights, particularly in areas with mild weather, but those who desire a truly low cut lawn should not plant fescue and instead look to rye or bluegrass. For most readers planting tall fescue from seed is going to be the better option. Fine fescue is the collective term for all fine-leaved fescue grasses. Fine fescues are … Tall fescue should be fertilized in the spring and fall with lighter applications in the spring and heavier ones in the fall. Tall fescue is grown primarily for pasture, silage, and hay. Those in cooler climates – Zones 4 and 5 – may want to seed as early as mid-August. Lawn moss is a common problem in yards. The larger blades form clumps as opposed to a carpet, and are several times thicker than fine fescue. 45-55" 50" and taller Leaf texture Fine Fine Finer than 4 & 5 Finer than KY-31 Under grazing and mowing, tall fescue develops a mature sod in 3 to 4 years. For new lawns sod is an excellent option. For those who are unable to meet these watering requirements, a hygroscopic product can be applied to help ensure seed does not dry out. Cool season grasses – which include fescue, bluegrass and rye – do best in the central to northern parts of the United States or in milder parts of southern California. Bluegrass and rye can also be included in the mix, if desired. Fine fescues are tolerant of drought and shade, but they are not very tolerant of heat or wear. About Tall Fescue. In this video I give you some thoughts on whether or not tall fescue might be the best cool season grass type. Percentage of weed seeds – choose very low weed seed levels, ideally less than 0.25 percent. The tall fescues grow well in a wide range of soil fertility, soil textures, and pH. Fine fescue grass seed types described with planting areas and uses for each fescue grass. While not as “thirsty” as bluegrass, tall fescue will require supplemental irrigation in most areas or it will go dormant and thin out. Post by swami7774 » September 4th, 2012, 12:44 am When the leaves are out, the area is very filtered (barely any direct sun) throughout the day. Traffic Resistance – Tall Fescue may grow into bunchy sods but it … The word “fine” refers to leaf blade width and texture when compared to the traditional Turf-type Tall variety. Those in warmer ones – 7b to 8 – may want to wait until late September to early October. Watering a little bit every day is a mistake that will lead to shallow rooted grass and an increased chance of disease. Few insects pose much of a threat to fescue. Many of the seed types recommended in this post contain acronyms that suggest some rhizomatous growth. The best way to prevent weeds is to have a thick, healthy lawn. For new lawns tall fescue should be seeded at 8 to 9 pounds per thousand square feet. Tall Fescue Grass Identification. Fescues have always been popular as a shade grass but within the genus Festuca there are over 300 different species of grasses with many different uses and benefits well beyond shade tolerance. Those with large yards should expect to pay thousands of dollars for high quality sod and hundreds more for installation. commutata Gaudin), hard (Festuca ovina L.), and sheep fescue (Festuca brevipila Tracey).All fine-leaf fescues are bunch-type grasses except creeping red fescue, which is rhizomatous. While important, these grasses will not be covered in this post, and will instead be the subject of a separate Guide. Sell-by date – fresher seed mixtures generally have higher germination rates. The lawn grasses that came after KY-31 are referred to as Turf Type Tall Fescues, meaning grasses specifically bred for yards not pastures. The poorest performing fine fescue this summer in Minnesota is strong creeping red fescue. During the height of summer, 4” to 4.5” is preferred. Turf-types are more coarse than bluegrass, though not as thick as traditional tall fescue commonly used as pasture grasses. Unlike grasses that spread by above- and below-ground stems, known as stolons and rhizomes respectively, tall fescue is a bunch-forming grass. KY-31, the variety that made Dr. Fergus famous – at least in the world of grass – remains readily available over seventy-five years after its release. Weeds that do emerge during the growing season should be knocked back with a quality post-emergent herbicide like SpeedZone. There are hundreds of these on the market with more being introduced every year. Is there any truth to this? Water Requirements – Tall Fescue needs only 1-inch of water every week and 1.5 inches on sandy soil as compared to Kentucky Bluegrass which needs at least twice more than Tall Fescue. As mentioned earlier, many of the cultivars not on this best performers lists can still be wonderful turfgrass selection for a … In an effort to simplify the dizzying array of selections it makes sense to categorize them by attribute: Tall fescue can be grown either from seed or from sod. The best tall fescue grass Seed is recognizable by its sparkling green color and the size of the blades that cover the lawn. Because it’s the safest way to plant fine fescue. They have been developed by seed companies to provide a finer textured leaf blade – somewhere between the forage-type and fine fescues previously mentioned. Throughout the 1930s Dr. Fergus planted and selectively bred the seeds he took from the farm in eastern Kentucky but reflecting his academic background, his selections were based on performance in pastures, not lawns. Modern, improved fescue grasses are capable of providing lawn… For tall fescue seed, you need at least 85 percent and slightly higher for the fine fescues, Tennessee says. However, even in the thickest lawns some weeds will make it through. That said, it is safe to say that tall fescue does best in Hardiness Zones 5, 6 and 7. While tall fescue is establishing foot traffic should be kept to an absolute minimum. This species doesn’t handle summer stress very well, and is susceptible to a number of diseases. Fine Fescue Pictures and Facts. The fescue grass also has its advantages and disadvantages. Scotts Turf Builder Starter Food for New Grass Plus Weed Preventer - 2-in-1 Formula - Fertilizes New... Hydretain HYDRT3212 Moisture Control Hose End,32 fl oz,Blue, PBI/Gordon 652400 Speed Zone Lawn Weed Killer, 20-Ounce - Brown/A. Tall Fescues for Traffic: Tall Fine fescue is a type of fescue that will look a bit brighter than a grass like tall fescue. Tall Fescue is a cool-season grass that has been the grass seed of choice in the mid-Atlantic and northeastern states for nearly 30 years and for about the last decade in the Midwest and far-western states like California. It has a coarse texture and deep roots. Seed should be kept moist until it germinates. It has a shiny underside and serrated leaf blade tips. Grubs generally avoid it but in lawns that have experienced serious grub problems in the past, applications of chlorantraniliprole in mid-spring should prevent further issues. Required fields are marked *. COMPARISON OF TALL FESCUE TYPES 1 Extreme Dwarf: Turf Types 2 Moderately Low-Growing Turf Types 3 Improved Second Genera-tion Turf Types 4 Original Turf Type s 5 Tall Fescues for Low-Maintenance Turf Plant height at maturity* under 35" Approx. preventative products meaning they need to be applied a considerable Creeping red, as the name implies, is a slowly spreading grass. Tradition Fine Fescue Mix can be added to Kentucky Bluegrass seed to make a lawn or turf mixture that has the qualities of fine fescues with the beauty of Bluegrass. Re: Tall vs fine fescue. This will enable new grass to grow successfully without competition from weeds. Their leaf blades are slightly wider than a Kentucky bluegrass. Weeds and undesirable grasses will often out-compete new seedlings and should be removed prior to any renovation. For severely compacted soils, liquid aeration products can be applied any time during the growing season. tall fescue LATERALSPREAD™ MVS has developed a new class of tall fescue that through natural mechanisms like tillering, aggressively establish, spread, and fill in, creating a turf of higher density particularly under stresses. Turfgrass science was in its infancy during his day, with the first major collegiate program being founded at Penn State only two years before his 1931 discovery. Click on the previous links or scroll down to … Comparative Chart, Tall and Fine Fescues. If you live in southwest Missouri, Nixa Lawn Care would be happy to help you select the perfect type of grass for your yard. Fine Fescues are the types listed on this page, while Fine Leaf Fescue is an older name for "'Turf-Type' Tall Fescue". The majority of the species clump and form tufts with the exception of the red creeping varieties, which spread by rhizomes. Consider the pros and cons of fescue grass before making your decision! Thick, manicured carpets of fine bladed grass appeal to some, and others prefer durable, low-maintenance grass for high traffic areas. Chewings Fescue Grass. The 5 varieties are often sold as a blended seed mix for better turf vigor. Fine fescue (Festuca sp. This grass type is a cool-season grass—it takes better to cooler weather. Only a handful of these have any relevance to lawncare but parsing them out can be complicated. Remember, contrary to what is often said, more does not equal better in this context. However, it has one particular nemesis: brown patch. Chewings fescue is similar to tall fescue in that it grows in an upright fashion but is fine fescue with thin leaves. Some tall fescue seeds on the market today claim to spread via rhizomes. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks which makes both types a wise choice depending on the results you want. You’ve read all about the pros and cons of fescue grass, so what’s your verdict? Since the early 1970s, tall fescue has been the predominant cool-season In an effort to end the confusion between fine fescue and fine leaf fescue, the later name was changed. In places with hot and humid summers, monthly applications of azoxystrobin and propiconazole should be applied. Related Post: The Best Cool-Season Grasses. Creeping red fescue, chewings fesc ue, hard fescue, and sheep fescue grass are in the category of fine leaved grass defined as fine fescue. You want to plant grass, not weeds. Except in rare circumstances one cannot both apply a pre-emergent and seed. Avoid mowing an overseeded lawn until existing grasses have reached such a height that they are shading out new seedlings. It should be topped with peat moss or a tackifier-containing mulch. Red fescue is usually adapted to soil and climatic conditions favorable to chewings fescue. During spring and fall – or any particularly rainy time – a height of 3 to 3.5” is best. Tall fescue has flat, broad, dark green leaf blades with visible veins. These amounts will vary and a soil test will go a long way towards figuring out the exact amounts for any particular lawn. Fine Fescue grasses are not the same species as the "Fine Leaf Fescues". Fescue does not grow quite as quickly from seed as does rye, but it grows and establishes much faster than bluegrass.

Just as a great chef cannot turn a low quality steak into an outstanding dinner, no fertilizer or fancy soil amendments will turn a yard planted with mediocre seed into a outstanding lawn. The research being put forth into developing better fescues is incredible with new cultivars bred for disease tolerance, drought and heat resistance, and even insect resistance. The Tall Fescue grass species is a coarser bladed, dense clumping grass that grows well in shady areas. Introduction. Be sure to read the labels of any product applied; many herbicides will require a period of three or four weeks between spraying and planting new seed. ft. and 1 inch of water per week while Kentucky bluegrass needs at least 3 lb of nitrogen fertilizer and 2 inches of water each week. While there is plenty of K-31 grass seed available and often sold as a lawn seed, more desirable tall fescues are available for establishing a fine lawn. EASY-TO-USE ALTERNATIVE: Tired of mechanical aeration? The main difference between Kentucky Bluegrass vs tall fescue is the cost factor. Walking on new grass can damage and even kill it. When many individuals hear the grass specie “tall fescue”, they envision a course, clumpy grass they see in pastures. In my experience the best way I know to buy the good fescues is in a blend like Scotts Turf Builder Heat-Tolerant Blue (click here to learn more) or Scotts Turf Builder Southern Gold Mix (click here to learn more). Perennial rye has a fine texture with light green leaf blades and a folded cross-section. This process has other benefits too: it will help minimize soil compaction and help water and nutrients reach fescue’s roots. So were we. Tall fescue is a broad-leaved fescue with wide, flat blades typical of lawn grasses. These grasses are perfect for temperate and cooler regions, especially maritime and low mountainous climates. Creeping red fescue, chewings fescue and hard fescue are all part of this group. Creepin red fescue, slender creeping red fescue, chewings fescue, hard fescue, blue fescue are all types of fine fescue grass. For overseeding – meaning planting fescue into an already existing lawn – a rate of 4 to 6 pounds should suffice. Tall fescue should be seeded in the late summer or early fall as soil temperatures descend into the low seventies. When watering tall fescue, do so deeply, applying approximately half an inch at a time. Dr. Fergus visited the farm and was struck by how green and lush this grass was even in drought conditions and how it managed to remain green even during the relatively cool Kentucky winters. Fine fescue is okay to blend with both Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass in small, evenly-distributed amounts although it may be noticeable when concentrated into patches. The most commonly cultivated fine fescues are hard, sheep, creeping red and Chewing's fescue. They can also have a lighter green color than other grasses. For those willing to sacrifice the color and density of bluegrass, and be willing to do an occasional over-seeding fall to thicken up the turf and repair any damaged area, this can be an … For example, as far south as Georgia, tall fescue will often be grown in shady backyards while bermuda or zoysia will be planted in sunnier front yards. Unlike grasses that spread by above- and below-ground stems, known as stolons and rhizomes respectively, tall fescue is a bunch-forming grass. Tall fescue produces very little thatch and should not ever require actual dethatching. Fine Fescue include various cool-season bunch and sod-forming species that can be used in water-wise lawns. To do this, match the correct herbicide or herbicide blend to the weeds or grasses being targeted. Thus it will require frequent overseeding. Varieties of tall fescue are distinguished by a taller and tougher stalk than fine fescue, producing a coarser appearance and texture when laid in a lawn. Tall fescue should receive approximately 3 to 3.5 pounds of nitrogen, .5 pounds of phosphorus and 1.5 to 2 pounds of potassium per year per one thousand square feet of grass. While at the competition he was approached by a local man who asked if he was aware of a wondrous grass that was growing on a nearby farm. Description. That said, for most homeowners, three to four brief waterings each day should suffice. Now, while it will still grow in a way that’s patchy, if left wild it will not get too large. Yes. Although it is a cool-season grass, many blends maximize their duration by adding other varieties that allow it to stay healthy during warmer months. For better or for worse, there is no one-size-fits-all recommendation for watering times or frequency; these will vary depending on the weather, climate, and soils of the lawn being seeded. A starter fertilizer should be applied when seeding tall fescue. While admittedly not exhibiting the same level of dark blue/green color and density as bluegrass, TTTF has some important and, to some, significant advantages. Dr. Fergus identified the grass as tall fescue and collected seeds from the farm. In 1931 Dr. E. N. Fergus, a professor in the agricultural department at the University of Kentucky, traveled to Menifee County in the eastern part of the state to judge a sorghum syrup competition. When the result of his work, KY-31, was first planted in home yards, it quickly became apparent that improvements could be made both in terms of appearance and performance. 35-45" Approx. Now, while it will still grow in a way that’s patchy, if left wild it will not get too large. Creeping red, chewings, and hard fescue are the most commonly planted fine fescue grass seed. Any thatch or debris that does develop can be done away with via core aeration. Kentucky 31 tall fescue and Kentucky Bluegrass are both well-known varieties of grass. Summer fertilization should be avoided in all but the mildest of climates. Mechanical aeration should be done at least once per year, preferably in the fall. However, unlike Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue … Your email address will not be published. They can also have a lighter green color than other grasses. The grass discovered and then bred by Dr. Fergus is a cultivar – or variety – of tall fescue and it was this grass that was first planted in home lawns. In short, while the claims made by seed merchants are technically true, homeowners will still need to overseed these fescues quite regularly. Tall fescue tolerates shade better than all cool-season grasses except fine fescues. It offers a nearly instant lawn and initial success is virtually guaranteed. Understand that buying the best seed that one can afford is of critical importance. Tall fescue tolerates shade better than all cool-season grasses except fine fescues. This genus contains between 400 and 500 individual species of grass. eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'greenthumbplanet_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_5',134,'0','0']));One of the main things to consider with a grass like fine fescue is irrigation. Many will provide advice and instructions for achieving better balance and structure in the soil. Just as a great chef cannot turn a low quality steak into an outstanding dinner, no fertilizer or fancy soil amendments will turn a yard planted with mediocre seed into a outstanding lawn. Many growers have trouble determining if they have fine fescue vs. t… Turf-type tall fescues are the most improved tall fescues and are used primarily for lawn use. Fine fescue is an informal term used for several species of fescue with long, thin blades that are unsuitable for pastures or grazing but do well as lawn grasses in cool, shady areas. Like tall fescue, they are hardy in USDA zones 2 to 7. Tall fescue is a hearty grass that resists many of the diseases that afflict bluegrass and rye. Also, the leaves are long and narrow, and it does not tend to spread in the same way a grass like Kentucky bluegrass would. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Infrequent mowings will result in too much of the grass blade being removed at once. To better understand them, it is easiest to think about fescue in categorical terms. This will stress tall fescue and make it more susceptible to disease. Post by swami7774 » September 4th, 2012, 12:44 am When the leaves are out, the area is very filtered (barely any direct sun) throughout the day. Plus, we can spruce up your landscaping with new lighting, water features, plants, trees, and more! These varieties can be purchased separately and blended at home or pre-blended mixes can be purchased at various retailers. Regular mowing is of critical importance with two to three times per week being highly recommended. Will you choose it for your lawn? Table 2. Fescue Pros: Fescue has a thicker turf, with a beautiful color. Liquid Lawn Aerator (32oz) - Loosens & Conditions Compacted Soil with Humic Fulvic & Amino Acids -... 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These tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass trials used to develop these best performers evaluated 680 tall fescue entries and 454 Kentucky bluegrass entries. species include creeping red (Festuca rubra), chewings (Festuca rubra ssp. To many, this is undesirable for a home lawn. Your email address will not be published. “The Good Fescue” is one of the many turf-type fescue varieties. Tall fescue requires about 1 lb of nitrogen fertilizer per 1000 sq. Cool season grasses – which include fescue, bluegrass and rye – do best in the central to northern parts of the United States or in milder parts of southern California. Fine fescue is okay to blend with both Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass in small, evenly-distributed amounts although it may be noticeable when concentrated into patches. Fine fescue will also be much shorter than a grass like tall fescue. As mentioned earlier, many of the cultivars not on this best performers lists can still be wonderful turfgrass selection for a … Tall fescue is the most heat and drought tolerant of the cool season grasses and can be successful further south than bluegrass or rye. Those who are interested in planting tall fescue would be better suited planting the aforementioned Turf Type Tall Fescues. In cooler areas bluegrass and rye make better choices, and in warmer areas fescue should only be planted in yards that experience partial shade or in those where plentiful irrigation is available. The latter is strongly preferred if planting on any sort of hill or slope. Following this advice is important and should be done in the months before seeding. This type of fescue does well in the northern United States and Canada, and it is known for its drought … Tall Fescue Grass Identification. There are many great tall fescue yards in places like Virginia, North Carolina, Kentucky, Tennessee and Kansas. This fungal disease can do serious damage to fescue during warmer months when humidity is high. However, for many sod is prohibitively expensive. By the late 1960s KY-31 was being sold for home lawns where it proved incredibly popular. It can survive through summer, and droughts, by going dormant. Pros of Fescue Grass Fescue Grass Does Well in Winter. Seed should be spread using a broadcast spreader and then pressed into the soil using a lawn roller. Planted in pastures by farmers throughout Kentucky during the 1940s and 1950s, it soon spread to the Midwest, South and then to the rest of the country. Grasses grown for home lawns are split into one of two camps: cool season and warm season. Leaves are medium green to blue green with a fine texture. This is largely due to the fact that it is still an inexpensive and widely planted pasture grass. Tall Fescue Tall fescue has been considered a versatile grass because it can perform well in a variety of environments. He trialed these seeds in various areas of Kentucky and the results of his trials became KY-31, a tall fescue cultivar he released in 1943. Fescue will get very tall, if it is not kept mowed and maintained. Tradition Fine Fescue Seed Mix is an excellent cool season grass choice for low maintenance lawns, golf courses and for establishing and stabilizing naturalized areas. It does produce short rhizomes, but its spreading capacity is limited. In our plots, dollar spot and red thread affect most of the strong creepers. Ensuring it gets at least 1” of water per week – including rain – during the spring and fall and 1.5” per week during summer will help keep it healthy and vibrant. As long as you’re not living way up north, your fescue grass will withstand winter easily. Turf-type tall fescue are becoming a popular turfgrass for homes and industrial sites. Yards should expect to pay thousands of dollars for high quality sod and hundreds more for.! 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