Tall fescue grass might be desirable in some areas thanks to its resilience and robust growth. However, for homeowners aiming for a cohesive lawn with uniform grass types, tall fescue grass can quickly become an unwelcome invader. Its coarse texture and clumping growth habit make it stand out prominently, disrupting the smooth and polished look of your lawn.
Tackling tall fescue grass can be challenging, but with the right tools and strategies, you can reclaim your lawn and maintain its aesthetic appeal. This comprehensive guide will walk you through understanding, removing, and preventing tall fescue grass to ensure your lawn stays healthy and unified.
What Is Tall Fescue Grass?
Tall fescue grass is a hardy cool-season grass known for its adaptability to a wide range of climates. While it can be a desirable grass variety when intentionally cultivated, it often becomes a nuisance when it invades lawns dominated by finer-textured species like bluegrass or Bermuda grass.
Key Characteristics of Tall Fescue:
- Texture:
- Coarse and broad blades, making it visually distinct from finer grasses.
- Growth Habit:
- Grows in clumps, which creates uneven patches in a uniform lawn.
- Resilience:
- Tolerant of drought, heat, and poor soil conditions.
- Spreading Mechanism:
- Primarily spreads by seeds, but clumps can expand over time.
Understanding its growth patterns is essential for effective removal and long-term management.
Why Is Tall Fescue Grass a Problem?
Tall fescue grass is not inherently bad, but it becomes problematic when it starts to overrun lawns unintentionally. Here’s why it’s considered an issue:
| Problem | Impact on Lawn |
|---|---|
| Disrupts Lawn Uniformity | Its coarse texture and clumping appearance create a patchy, inconsistent lawn. |
| Outcompetes Desired Grass | Tall fescue’s aggressive growth can overpower more desirable grass species. |
| Hard to Eliminate | Its deep root system and seed production make removal challenging. |
| Reduces Turf Appeal | The uneven growth detracts from the lawn’s smooth, cohesive look. |
Addressing tall fescue effectively requires a tailored approach that tackles both its immediate presence and its ability to spread.
How to Get Rid of Tall Fescue Grass in Lawn
Removing tall fescue grass from a lawn requires patience and a combination of techniques. Here’s how you can handle it effectively:
1. Manual Removal
For smaller patches of tall fescue, manual removal is often the simplest and most environmentally friendly method.
Steps for Manual Removal:
- Loosen the Soil:
- Water the area thoroughly a day before removal to soften the soil.
- Pull the Grass:
- Grasp the grass at the base and pull firmly, ensuring you remove as much root as possible.
- Dig Out Stubborn Clumps:
- Use a spade or garden fork to dig out clumps with deep roots.
Pros:
- No chemicals involved.
- Effective for localized infestations.
Cons:
- Labor-intensive.
- May not be practical for larger areas.
2. Spot-Treat with Herbicides
For larger patches or severe infestations, herbicides can be an effective solution. Select a product specifically designed to target coarse grasses like tall fescue without harming desirable species.
Recommended Herbicides:
- Herbicides containing glyphosate:
- Non-selective, effective for killing tall fescue but will harm all grasses and plants it touches.
- Selective products with fluasifop or sethoxydim:
- Can target fescue while sparing other grasses.
Application Tips:
- Apply on a calm, dry day to avoid drift to other plants.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper dilution and timing.
- Spot-treat affected areas rather than broadcasting over your entire lawn.
Pros:
- Targets large infestations effectively.
- Requires less physical effort than manual removal.
Cons:
- Risk of damaging other plants if applied incorrectly.
- May require repeat applications.
3. Solarization
For those looking for a chemical-free method to eliminate tall fescue in larger areas, solarization is a good alternative.
How to Solarize Lawn Sections:
- Mow the tall fescue to ground level.
- Cover the area with clear plastic sheeting.
- Seal the edges with soil or bricks to trap heat and moisture.
- Leave it for 4–6 weeks during the hottest months to kill the grass and its seeds.
Pros:
- Kills both grass and seeds.
- Suitable for organic gardening.
Cons:
- Time-consuming process.
- Area is unusable during treatment.
4. Reseed or Sod Damaged Areas
After removing tall fescue, it’s essential to repair the affected areas to prevent weeds or more fescue from taking over.
Steps for Reseeding:
- Prepare the soil by tilling or aerating it.
- Apply a high-quality grass seed that matches your existing lawn variety.
- Fertilize and water the area consistently during germination.
Sod Installation:
- For quicker results, lay sod over the treated areas. Be sure to prepare the soil and water it thoroughly beforehand.
Pros:
- Restores lawn uniformity quickly.
- Prevents weeds from establishing.
Cons:
- Requires additional effort and expense.
Preventing Tall Fescue Grass
After removing the tall fescue, implementing preventative strategies is key to keeping your lawn free from reinfestation:
1. Mow and Water Properly
- Mowing:
- Keep your grass at the recommended height to maintain its competitive edge against tall fescue.
- Watering:
- Water deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth of desired grass species.
2. Apply Pre-Emergent Herbicide
- Use a pre-emergent herbicide in spring to prevent tall fescue seeds from germinating.
3. Aerate and Overseed
- Annually aerate your lawn to relieve compaction and overseed to ensure a dense turf that can outcompete weeds.
4. Inspect Regularly
- Monitor your lawn frequently for new patches of tall fescue, especially near property borders or areas prone to moisture.
By staying proactive, you can maintain a healthy, lush, and uniform lawn free from tall fescue grass.
FAQs About Tall Fescue Grass
1. Can tall fescue grass damage my lawn?
Yes, its clumping growth habit and coarse texture disrupt lawn uniformity. Its aggressive growth can also crowd out desired species.
2. Is it possible to prevent tall fescue from spreading?
Absolutely. Regular lawn maintenance, pre-emergent herbicides, and overseeding can help you prevent its spread.
3. Should I hire a professional for tall fescue removal?
For severe infestations or large lawns, a professional service may be more efficient and can ensure effective long-term management.
4. Can I compost tall fescue grass?
It’s best to avoid composting tall fescue, as it may still contain seeds that could germinate when you use the compost.
5. How long does it take to remove tall fescue completely?
Depending on the method you choose, it can take several weeks to months to fully eliminate tall fescue, especially if repeat treatments are necessary.
With the right approach and a little persistence, you can control tall fescue grass and enjoy the vibrant, uniform lawn you’ve always envisioned. Take the first step today, and watch your lawn transform!