Turf seed are available from many garden centers, hardware stores, farm supply, and DYI warehouses. If you plan to establish or renovate your lawn with a cool season grass this fall be sure to seed before the end of September for best results. The following tips and advice for sowing tall fescue are adapted from a Turf Alert, posted Sep 15, by Dr. Fall is the best time for renovation and seeding of tall fescue and other cool-season lawns.
Remember that spring-established tall fescue is more susceptible to drought, heat, fungal diseases, and weed encroachment. With normal summer weather patterns, spring seeding is not likely to result in a year-long stand of healthy tall fescue.
So do not delay, seed today! Young seedlings normally emerge and grow best when air temperatures are between 70 and 80 degrees. Soil temperatures need to be greater than 60 degrees for good germination. It is generally better to go a bit early than to seed late. If tall fescue is seeded in less than ideal conditions too cool or no soil moisture , you may experience a thin turf stand going into the winter.
So try to get your seed out in September. A typical tall fescue seeding rate is 5 to 6 pounds of seed per square feet. Germination normally occurs within 7 to 21 days under suitable moisture and soil temperatures conditions. As post-winter soil and air temperatures warm, spring is your second best time to plant tall fescue seed.
As in fall, time spring planting to coincide with soil temperatures of 60 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer and consistent air temperatures between 68 to 77 F. Optimal spring planting times vary by location. In transition zone lawns, ideal conditions may arrive in March. Farther north, favorable conditions may wait until April or even early May. In most of tall fescue's growing range, the landscape provides timing clues.
Early-flowering yellow forsythia bushes bloom when soil temperatures reach 55 F. Confirm soil temperature with a soil thermometer, and plan tall fescue seeding accordingly. While spring offers good conditions for planting tall fescue, it holds some challenges. Heavy rains and melting snow or ice can keep soil cold for extended periods, inhibiting germination and giving hardy weeds a head start.
Cool, overly wet soil also encourages the development of fungal diseases that can impact germination, seedling growth and established lawns. Spring planting gives tall fescue less time to get established before summer heat replaces favorable growing temperatures.
As a result, spring-planted tall fescue may struggle more than fall-planted seed. Seasonal fall and spring rains help keep germinating seed and seedling evenly moist. Planting tall fescue at the best time gives your lawn the best possible start, but timing isn't the only factor in seeding success. Follow test recommendations. They help ensure the thick, healthy, vibrant lawn you've planned. Tall fescue adapts to various soil types and tolerates a broader pH range than many other lawn grasses.
It does best when soil pH stays between 5. Your soil may need soil amendments, such as lime or elemental sulfur, to restore pH balance and nutrient availability. Mix all test-recommended fertilizers and amendments into the top 6 to 8 inches of soil before you seed. Early site preparation focuses on removing weeds and unwanted grasses. If you have existing turf, removing it with a sod cutter is one option. Non-selective herbicides, which kill both broadleaf plants and grasses, offer another approach.
Many herbicides require multiple applications and significant waiting periods before you can seed, so time early site prep appropriately. For final site prep, rake the area to create a flat, level planting surface.
Fill in any low-lying spots where water could accumulate and cause drainage problems. Correct grading issues that could complicate mowing or send water toward your home instead of away.
A gentle grade that drops about 1 foot per 50 feet should drain well without draining too fast. Newly planted seed requires consistent moisture and care.
Quality seed products provide accurate seeding recommendations for best results. To get the most from your tall fescue seed, follow the label guidelines for seeding rates. New lawns require about twice the amount of seed needed to overseed a thin, existing lawn. Quick tip : Always avoid planting in the summer or winter months. Fescue grass is a popular cool-season grass that does best in part sun to fully shaded lawns. Its finely-textured, dark green blades germinate surprisingly quickly in even poor or difficult soils thanks to its deep roots.
While fescues do well throughout the middle belt and northern regions of the U. Find the perfect blend for your project today! Known for its unique blades and growing patterns, fescue is a perennial grass that does well in the mid to northern regions of the United States.
This grass species thrives best in shady lawns and cool temperatures; it's even considered one of the best grass seeds for poor soil!
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