How to Care for Dwarf Fescue
Dwarf fescue is a relatively newer variety of fescue grass with unique properties not found in traditional fescue grasses. Appearing very similar to traditional fescue in blade shape, the dwarf variety is dark green, slow growing and more drought tolerant than other varieties. Dwarf fescue is durable and suitable for use around the home as well as high-traffic commercial property applications.
Plant dwarf fescue in a prepared area at a rate of 8 to 10 lbs. of grass seed per 1,000 square feet. Cover the seed with no more than 1/4 inch of soil and keep the seed and soil moist. Allow 30 days or so for the grass to reach at least 2 inches in height before mowing.
- Dwarf fescue is a relatively newer variety of fescue grass with unique properties not found in traditional fescue grasses.
- Dwarf fescue is durable and suitable for use around the home as well as high-traffic commercial property applications.
Allow the grass to grow and strengthen for at least eight to 10 weeks before allowing use, especially in high-traffic areas such as parks and especially ball fields and recreation areas.
Set the cutting blade height on a riding or push lawn mower to between 1 1/2 and 2 1/2 inches. Mow the dwarf fescue as needed to maintain the set height every 10 to 14 days, or longer, as needed based on the slower growth of the grass.
Water the dwarf fescue with a sprinkler less than traditional fescue varieties. Use irrigation as needed to maintain the moisture level in the soil and especially during periods of extended drought. Avoid overwatering of the grass to prevent mold development.
Fertilize dwarf fescue with a balanced fertilizer formula containing nitrogen. Apply the fertilizer to the dwarf fescue with a spreader. Set the spreader to deliver the fertilizer at a rate of 2 to 3 lbs. per 1,000 square feet. Consult the manufacturer's directions for proper spreader adjustment.
- Allow the grass to grow and strengthen for at least eight to 10 weeks before allowing use, especially in high-traffic areas such as parks and especially ball fields and recreation areas.
- Mow the dwarf fescue as needed to maintain the set height every 10 to 14 days, or longer, as needed based on the slower growth of the grass.
Dwarf Blue Fescue Grass Turn Brown In The Fall?
Native to the Western U.S. including California, the Southwest and the Pacific Northwest, dwarf blue fescue is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 8. It is a clumping grass that grows between 4 and 10 inches in height and width. In warmer climates, dwarf blue fescue is evergreen, though during particularly cold weather you may see some grass die off, at which point stalks will turn golden or brown in late fall or winter. Some people enjoy this effect, while others find it ratty-looking. However, because it also tolerates cold and mountainous conditions, you may grow it even if you live in cooler, high-altitude environments where moisture is more prevalent. It tolerates both full and partial sun, as well as dry, shallow and rocky soils. Then replant these new clumps. Eventually they will grow into their own rounded plants. If you grow the plant from seed, you may also see some color variations.
- Native to the Western U.S. including California, the Southwest and the Pacific Northwest, dwarf blue fescue is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 8.
- In warmer climates, dwarf blue fescue is evergreen, though during particularly cold weather you may see some grass die off, at which point stalks will turn golden or brown in late fall or winter.
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Writer Bio
Keith Dooley has a degree in outdoor education and sports management. He has worked as an assistant athletic director, head coach and assistant coach in various sports including football, softball and golf. Dooley has worked for various websites in the past, contributing instructional articles on a wide variety of topics.
