Tall fescue will grow in sun and partial shade and is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions, but like most other grasses, grows best with a soil pH between 6 and 6.5. Lawns planted in tall fescue tend to thin out and become 'clumpy' thus requiring periodic overseeding. This brings us to the question I am asked most often about fescue, 'Which tall fescue is the best?'
First of all, let me clarify that cultivar or variety selection is only one part, perhaps 20%, of the equation needed to be successful with a tall fescue lawn. Several other important factors include: (1) proper soil preparation, (2) proper seeding rate, (3) proper irrigation, using one inch of water per week, (4) correct mowing height (2.5" - 3"), (5) cultivation of compacted soils, and (7) an application of summer annual preemergence herbicide.
Now back to which grass: The University of Georgia conducts research trials each year on many new tall fescue cultivars. The latest data from the 1996 and 1993 trials produced the following top performing entries in Georgia: Jaguar 3, Plantation, Masterpiece, Millenium, Rembrandt, Coronado Gold, Olympic Gold, Falcon III, Rebel, Sentry, Rebel Jr, Coyote, Arid 3, Shenandoah, Southern Choice, Silverado, Crossfire, Finelawn, Adobe, Mirage, Safari, Twilight.
Two other questions pertaining to tall fescue are 'How much seed do I need?' and 'What type of fertilizer should I use?'
As for the seeding rate, it will depend on whether you are overseeding or starting from scratch. If overseeding, you should not put out more than 4 - 5 lbs per 1000 sq. ft. If you are starting from scratch or renovating your lawn, you need to seed fescue at a rate of about 8 lbs per 1000 sq. ft.
When it comes to fertilizer and lime, this is a tough one to answer without the benefit of taking a soil sample. If you have your soil tested, the results will provide you with exact instructions specific to your lawn.
Without the benefit of a soil sample, a good rule of thumb on lime is 50 lbs per 1000 sq. ft. As for fertilizer, use a good starter fertilizer according to label directions, or you can apply 16-4-8 at a rate of about 10-15 lbs per 1000 sq. ft. in the fall and again in April.
Billy Skaggs Agricultural Agent Hall County Extension Coordinator 734 East Crescent Drive Gainesville, GA 30501 Phone:(770)531-6988 Fax: (770)531-3994 Email: [email protected]
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