The Amazing Shade Tolerance Of Fine Fescue Grass

Fine fescue is not native to the U.S., but originated in Europe. They are probably best known for their exceptional shade tolerance and their very thin blades. The blades often appear to be rolled like a string instead of a flat blade. They are not much more than 1/16 of an inch wide.

In the U.S. these grasses are mostly restricted to being a "shade grass". The blades are so thin they simply cannot take the full sun summer heat, even in the northern U.S. However, in many European countries where the grass originated, the conditions are more favorable and these fine fescues have even been used as a primary turfgrass.

There are a few different species of fine fescues. Each species will be able to tolerate slightly different conditions. "Shade grass seed blends" should contain each of the species of seed to cover the different types of growing conditions. The grass species that will prevail will be the ones that are best suited for your conditions. Click here to see a map of the U.S. climate zones for grass adaptation.

Fine fescue grass types

Creeping red fescue

Creeping red fescue prefer cooler, damp climates. Their best range of adaptation is in the north/central to north/eastern areas of U.S and Canada and has exceptional cold tolerance. It is strictly a shade grass and will not survive long in the sun. Tall fescue or Kentucky bluegrass should be used in the full sun portions of your lawn.

Creeping red, as the name implies, is a slowly spreading grass. It creeps along by way of short underground stems called rhizomes. This grass can also develop thatch. Core aeration can help reduce thatch, especially if the cores are left on the grass. See Plant Structure for a better understanding of rhizomes.

Chewings fescue

Chewings fescue prefers a little drier climate than does creeping red fescue. It prefers the north/central U.S. It will do best in shade, however, has the ability to survive in the sun as long as it is not too hot. It has a bunch type growth habit and does not spread.

Hard fescue

Like the other fine fescues, hard fescue has very fine blades and is very shade tolerant. One difference is in the color. It tends to have more of a gray/green color similar to the color of buffalograss. It prefers northern areas with drier climates. It will not persist well where soils are too moist.

Sheep Fescue

This species is especially useful in shaded areas that will receive little maintenance. It is considered to be a common variety with few cultivars. It doesn't require much maintenance. On shaded areas, including steep hillsides or other difficult to mow places, this is a perfect choice. Just let it go and don't worry about mowing it.

Maintenance requirements

Fine fescues have a moderate wear resistance and should not be used where there is heavy traffic. Shade grasses grow slower than sun grasses, so any damage that occurs will take longer to repair. Tall fescue has good shade tolerance and is a better choice for those areas with moderate to heavy traffic.

Fertilization

The fertility requirement for fine fescue is low. It needs very little nitrogen fertilizer, only about 1 to 2 lbs. of nitrogen per 1000 sq. ft. per year. The best time for fertilization is in the spring and fall. If the grass is to remain unmowed, fertilize only once a year in fall.

Mowing

It can be mowed as low as 1.5 inches, but 2 to 3 inches is preferred.

Irrigation

Most fine fescues prefer drier soils. Creeping red will do well in moist soil, but not prolonged wet soil. It may become diseased under wet conditions.

Shaded soil will retain moisture longer than soil in sunny areas. If you are experiencing drought conditions the grass will need to be watered. A half inch of water a couple times a week in summer should do well depending on soil type. Sandy soil may require more in high heat periods.

Insect damage

Insects such as billbugs and grub worms can occasionally be a problem. Lawn insecticides containing carbaryl (seven) or trichlorfon (dylox) will have the quickest results on insects. Granular insecticides are the easiest and fastest method of application. May need to apply light granulars on a calm day.

Products containing imidacloprid or halofenocide as the active ingredient do not have quick killing action. These are preventative products meaning they need to be applied a considerable time before any damage occurs. If applied at the time of damage, it will have no effect. See our pesticide page for more information.

Disease problems

Dollar spot is a fungal disease that can be an occasional problem. Dollar spot occurs when nitrogen levels are too low. The best method of preventing dollar spot is to make sure there is sufficient nitrogen levels. (But not excessive.) There are several fungicides labeled for dollar spot if necessary.

Red thread and leaf spot can also affect the grass. They are most common in humid, damp, cool spring weather. When environmental conditions change to less humid, warmer weather, the disease should stop. If the disease is only in the grass blade, it will grow out. If it persists, it may affect the crown. The use of a fungicide may be warranted. See the Disease section for detailed information.