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 shade tolerance and their very thin blades. The blades are some of the finest of all turfgrass and can measure less than a 16th of an inch wide. Most species prefer cooler regions and will not survive in the southern half of the U.S. In European countries, such as Scotland, conditions are quite favorable and these fescues are even used as a primary turfgrass. In the U.S., however, they mostly do well only in the shade, so that is generally how they are marketed.

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 right for the 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 cool/humid areas of the northeastern 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 will need to be part of the seed mixture to cover the sunny areas of the lawn.

Creeping red, as the name implies, is a spreading grass. It doesn’t spread quickly, but creeps along by way of short 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. Its area of adaptation is in the northern areas of the Midwest. It will do best in shade, however, has the ability to survive in the sun. 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 buffalograss. It prefers areas around the Midwest where soils are a bit drier. 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. However, it doesn’t appear to need much improvement. 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 1000sq. ft. per year. Only zoysiagrass has as low a nitrogen requirement. 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. In dry periods, when supplemental irrigation is required, about a third less water is required for shade areas than for sun areas. 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.