Fescue is one of the most popular cool-season grasses in Tennessee, prized for its deep green color and tolerance for our mild winters. However, maintaining healthy fescue requires understanding its unique characteristics and needs.
Why Fescue?
Fescue varieties such as tall fescue and fine fescue thrive in the transition zone climate found in Maryville and Alcoa. They stay green longer than warm-season grasses and establish deep root systems that help them survive summer stress.
Core Maintenance Tasks
- Mowing Height: Keep fescue between 3.0-4.0 inches for deeper roots and better drought tolerance.
- Overseeding: Each fall, overseed thin areas to maintain density and crowd out weeds.
- Aeration: Aerate every 1-2 years to relieve compaction and help nutrients reach the root zone.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early fall and again in late fall.
Summer Survival Tips
Although fescue prefers cooler weather, proper watering and higher mowing heights help it survive July and August heat without going dormant.
Common Problems
Brown patch and heat stress are the two biggest enemies. Reduce evening irrigation, improve air flow, and treat with a fungicide if brown patch appears.
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