Creeping Red Fescue Grass Seed for Shaded Cool-Climate Lawns and Low-Maintenance Turf · Suited to cool, shaded lawns and turf
Creeping Red Fescue Grass Seed for Shaded Cool-Climate Lawns and Low-Maintenance Turf · Suited to cool, shaded lawns and turf
Creeping red fescue grass seed helps establish lawns and turf in cool, shaded locations where frequent mowing, fertilizing and irrigation are less practical. Its low maintenance needs make it useful around cabins, camps, resorts, parks and recreation areas.
This cool-season grass has high tolerance for cold and shade, with moderate tolerance for drought and wear. It can accompany Kentucky bluegrass to improve shade tolerance. Establishment is slow, and its low heat tolerance makes it less suitable for hot, exposed sites.
Features
- Cool-season grass for shaded lawns and turf
- Requires relatively little fertilizer, water and mowing
- High tolerance for cold temperatures and shade
- Moderate drought and wear tolerance
- Companion grass for Kentucky bluegrass where greater shade tolerance is desired
- Suitable for lawn, turf, erosion control and recreation applications
Specifications
- Grass type: Creeping red fescue
- Package weights: 5 lb, 10 lb, 25 lb and 50 lb
- Growing regions: Cool-season regions and the transition zone
- Germination time: 14–21 days under optimal conditions
- Listed height: 3–4 inches
- Sunlight requirement: 4–6 hours
- Planting season: Fall or spring depending on location
- Planting depth: 1/4 inch
- Preferred soil pH: 6.5
- Mowing guidance: A high mowing cut is recommended
- Heat tolerance: Low
- Packaging: Packaging appearance may vary
Frequently Asked Questions
Is creeping red fescue suitable for a shaded lawn?
Yes. Creeping red fescue has high shade tolerance and is suited to cool, shaded lawns and turf. Plan for the listed sunlight requirement of 4–6 hours.
How quickly does creeping red fescue grass seed germinate?
It typically germinates in 14–21 days under optimal conditions. Establishment is slow, so allow additional time for the lawn to develop.
Does creeping red fescue need frequent mowing and watering?
No. It requires relatively little mowing, watering and fertilizer, and a high mowing cut is recommended.
Can creeping red fescue grow in a hot climate?
It has low heat tolerance and generally performs poorly in hot climates, so cool sites are a better fit.
Can creeping red fescue be planted with Kentucky bluegrass?
Yes. It can serve as a companion grass where Kentucky bluegrass grows well, helping improve shade tolerance.
When should I plant creeping red fescue grass seed?
Plant in fall or spring according to your location. Sow at a depth of 1/4 inch; the preferred soil pH is 6.5.