Best Fine Fescue Grass Seed (2024 Update)
If you're looking for a lush and green lawn, fine fescue grass seed might just be the solution you need. This type of grass is known for its fine texture and its ability to grow in shady areas, making it a popular choice for homeowners who want to add some curb appeal to their property. But with so many different options on the market, how do you know which is the best fine fescue grass seed for you?
Before you hit "buy", there are a few factors you should consider. First, think about your climate. Some types of fine fescue grass seed are better suited to cool, moist environments, while others can handle more heat and drought. You'll also want to think about the amount of shade in your yard, as some fine fescue grass varieties are better able to tolerate low light conditions. Finally, consider the upkeep involved in maintaining a fine fescue lawn. Some varieties require more regular mowing and fertilization than others.
Still not sure where to start? Here are a few questions to ask yourself before selecting the best fine fescue grass seed for your lawn:
– Which varieties are best suited to my climate?
– How much shade does my lawn get throughout the day?
– Am I willing to put in extra maintenance to keep my lawn looking its best?
– What other features am I looking for in a grass seed (e.g. drought tolerance, disease resistance, etc.)?
By taking the time to assess your needs and research your options, you'll be one step closer to a beautiful, green lawn that you can enjoy year-round.
10 Best Fine Fescue Grass Seed
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This product is ideal for growing shade-tolerant fine fescue grass to create a lush, green lawn.
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Ideal for low maintenance lawns that require little water and can tolerate shade conditions.
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This product is ideal for growing high-quality shade grass with no fillers, weed, or other crop seeds.
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4
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This product is ideal for creating a high-quality lawn that includes a mixture of Ryegrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Fine Fescue.
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5
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This product is ideal for growing a cool season lawn in areas with varying levels of sun exposure.
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6
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Ideal for creating a low maintenance, dense and shade-tolerant fine grass blend that's weed-free.
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7
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Ideal for customers in transition zones who want a resilient and attractive lawn with minimal maintenance.
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8
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This product is ideal for growing a non-invasive type of grass that can grow up to 16 inches tall.
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9
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Ideal for creating a lush, medium green lawn in areas with cool weather conditions and partial shade.
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10
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Ideal for creating a full, durable lawn with good drought and disease resistance.
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1. Outsidepride Creeping Red Fine Fescue Shade Tolerant Lawn Grass Seed – 5 Lb
If you're looking for a fine-bladed grass that thrives in cool climates and shady areas, Creeping Red Fescue might just be the perfect choice for you. This grass is one of the few that spreads rhizomes, which means that it can fill in bare spots and create a lush, green carpet over time.
Not only is Creeping Red Fescue great for its ability to spread, but it's also very soft to walk on. This makes it a great choice for families with children who love to play outside.
But don't think that this grass is only for shady areas. Creeping Red Fescue can also grow in full sun, especially in the transition zone and northern parts of the United States.
To achieve the perfect lawn, you'll need to seed at a rate of 4-5 pounds per 1,000 square feet. This will ensure that your lawn is thick, healthy, and beautiful.
2. Hard Fescue Lowgrow Grass Seed – 5lb
Hard fescue is a versatile grass that is perfect for cool climates and shady areas. With its fine blades, it is able to create a lush, green cover that can help control erosion. Unlike other grasses, hard fescue does not grow taller than 8 inches, making it an ideal choice for areas that require low maintenance.
Whether you need to create a naturalized area that requires no mowing or a fine fescue lawn, hard fescue can meet your needs. It can even grow in full sun in the transition zone and northern regions of the United States.
The recommended seeding rate for hard fescue is 4-5 lbs per 1,000 square feet. With this seeding rate, you can achieve a beautiful, dense coverage that will last for years to come.
3. Eretz Red Fescue: Premium Shade Grass Seed.
Introducing the PERENNIAL grass, a top-notch choice for those looking for a fine-bladed, shade-loving grass. With its superior disease resistance, this grass is sure to keep your lawn looking healthy and vibrant year-round.
One of the unique features of this grass is its aggressive tillering, allowing it to fill in any gaps in your lawn and create a seamless, lush appearance. Whether you prefer your lawn cut or uncut, this grass naturally grows to a height of 6-8 inches, making it a versatile choice for any lawn type.
In addition to its impressive performance, this grass boasts a medium to dark green color that will enhance the overall beauty of your lawn. Unlike other grasses that can contain weeds or crop seeds, this PERENNIAL grass is 99.6% pure seed and 0.4% inert matter, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a weed-free lawn.
4. Outsidepride Showtime Ryegrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, Fine Fescue Lawn Grass Seed Mixture – 5 Lbs
Introducing the Showtime grass seed mixture, a premium blend of bluegrass, ryegrass, and creeping red fescue that is perfect for creating a stunning lawn or sports field. The name "Showtime" is fitting considering the impressive qualities of this mixture.
Designed with a focus on both shade and wear tolerance, Showtime delivers excellent results, making it an ideal choice for outdoor sports such as volleyball, badminton, croquet, and more. With a soft texture and comfortable feel underfoot, walking barefoot on your Showtime lawn will be an enjoyable experience.
This North Half of the U.S. mixture has been specially formulated for USDA Zones 4-7 and contains one variety of ryegrass, one variety of bluegrass, and one variety of creeping red fescue. The combination of these three grasses results in a lush, fine-bladed, and dark green lawn that is both durable and visually appealing.
The Showtime grass seed mixture is versatile and can be used in full sun or partial shade, making it an excellent choice for colder climates. To begin growing your gorgeous, dark green lawn, simply distribute 4-6 pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet of new turf.
5. Jonathan Green (12005) Black Beauty Sun & Shade Grass Seed – Cool Season Lawn Seed (7 Lb)
Looking for a grass seed mix that can thrive in almost any lawn environment? Look no further than the Sun & Shade Grass Seed Mix! This high-quality lawn seed mixture is specifically designed to grow in full sun to partial shade, making it perfect for a wide range of lawns and gardens.
Not only does this grass seed mix improve the overall appearance of your lawn, but it's also great for overseeding to fill in bare spots and thicken the entire lawn. With healthy, dense, and attractive turf that boasts a dark-green color, you can enjoy a beautiful lawn that looks great all season long.
One of the key features of this grass seed mix is the fact that it contains four different families of cool-season turfgrasses. These include turf-type tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial rye, and fine fescues. This unique blend of grasses ensures that your lawn will be able to withstand a variety of weather conditions and maintain its appearance year-round.
With a 7 lb bag of this grass seed mix, you can seed up to 2,625 sq. ft. for new lawns or up to 5,250 sq. ft. for overseeding. The germination time is between 7 and 14 days, and the best time to apply is between mid-August and mid-October or mid-March through mid-May.
6. Twin City's Shade-Tolerant Fescue Blend
This 5lb. bag of low grow fine fescue grass seed mix is perfect for those who want to maintain a beautiful lawn without the need for constant maintenance. The bag covers up to 1000 sq. ft., making it ideal for residential, commercial, institutional, or municipal lawns, yards, sidewalk medians, parks, sports fields, right of ways, and landscaping.
This seed mix provides a resilient and sustainable turf that is perfect for areas where mowing, fertilizing, or watering may not be possible or desired, such as wildflower beds and berms. Once established, this low maintenance grass only needs to be mowed biweekly to monthly to a height of 3 inches. If left unmowed, it can reach a maximum height of 10-12 inches. Fertilizer is not recommended or necessary, and there is no need to water once the grass is established.
This grass seed mix can grow in most soil types, from very sandy to somewhat heavy clay soils. It can also accept most sun conditions, from full sun to heavy shade. Additionally, it is drought tolerant and can grow under tough conditions.
This seed mix is certified and of high quality. It is Oregon Certified Seed and is 99% weed-free, with no noxious weeds and is non-GMO. With its easy maintenance and ability to grow under tough conditions, this grass seed mix is perfect for anyone looking to maintain a beautiful lawn without the hassle of constant upkeep.
7. Outsidepride Combat Extreme Turf Type Fescue Lawn Grass Seed Blend For Transition Zone – 5 Lb
Combat Extreme Transition Zone Grass Seed is a premium blend of three-way turf type fescue grass seed that produces a fine to medium leaf-bladed grass, forming a dense turf. This seed blend is specifically designed for lower growing cultivars, making it ideal for both professional and home use.
One of the unique features of Combat Extreme is that it thrives in shady areas, which is something that warm-season grasses cannot provide. This fescue grass seed blend produces grass that has superior heat and drought tolerance, making it an excellent choice for areas that experience extreme temperatures.
Unlike other turf type fescue grass seeds, Combat Extreme has the ability to repair itself. Traditional tall fescue grass seeds tend to clump together, leaving bare spots and producing an uneven lawn. This is where Combat Extreme stands out, as it can fill in these open areas with aggressive tillering, which reduces the chance of weeds taking over the lawn.
Combat Extreme Grass Seed is perfect for growing in full sun or partial shade in the transition zones. For best results, it is recommended to seed 8 – 10 lbs per 1,000 square feet. This grass seed blend is easy to grow and maintain, producing a lush, green lawn that will enhance the beauty of any property.
8. Blue Fescue Grass Seed – 16" Tall And Non-Invasive – 10,000 Seeds
The Blue Fescue is a delightful cool-season bunchgrass that flourishes up to a height of 16 inches. It boasts of fine, bluish-green leaf blades that are both eye-catching and soothing. Its versatile and non-invasive qualities make it an excellent option for mixing with flower assortments to create a natural-looking meadow or area. This grass variety is also an ideal choice for enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your beds and borders.
The Blue Fescue thrives best when grown in a sunny location. Its foliage color is most vibrant and impressive under full sun exposure. When planting, avoid covering the seeds, instead, press them firmly into the earth to facilitate their growth.
Marde Ross & Company takes pride in being a licensed California Nursery since the year 1985. With this experience, you can trust their Blue Fescue seeds to be of high quality and offer exceptional results.
9. Nature's Seed Turf-Ff-5000-F Fine Fescue Grass Seeds Blend, 5000 Sq. Ft, Medium Green
Looking for a way to create a beautiful and natural-looking lawn without the need for high maintenance? Look no further than this premium grass seed mix! Composed of four different varieties of low-growing fine fescues, including hard, sheep, chewings and creeping red, this mix is perfect for those seeking a low-water use, naturalized landscape that requires little to no fertilizer.
One of the standout features of this grass seed mix is its purity. With 98% pure live seed, you can trust that you're getting a high-quality product that won't be weighed down by any unnecessary filler. This ensures that every seed you plant will have the potential to grow into a healthy and lush blade of grass.
In addition, this grass seed mix is highly adaptable to a variety of different soil conditions, making it an ideal choice for those with poor soil quality or limited sunlight. And for those with irrigation issues, this mix is particularly well-suited to thrive in low-water conditions, ensuring that your lawn will continue to look beautiful even during times of drought or water restrictions.
So if you're looking for a reliable and low-maintenance way to create a stunning natural landscape, look no further than this premium grass seed mix. With its combination of top-quality seeds, low-water use, and adaptability to a variety of different growing conditions, it's the perfect choice for anyone looking to create a beautiful and healthy lawn.
10. Seedranch Falcon Iv Turf Type Tall Fescue Grass Seeds – 50 Lbs.
The new and improved tall fescue variety is an exceptional product that is designed to meet the needs of any lawn enthusiast. Boasting superior turf quality, this variety is engineered to withstand high temperatures and resist disease, ensuring that your lawn stays in pristine condition all year round.
One of the key features of this tall fescue variety is its heat resistance. With the ability to endure high temperatures without succumbing to damage or discoloration, this product provides a reliable solution for homeowners in areas with hot climates.
In addition to its heat resistance, this tall fescue variety is also highly disease-resistant. Its robust genetics have been developed to combat common lawn diseases, such as brown patch and dollar spot, thereby ensuring that your lawn remains healthy and vibrant.
The new and improved tall fescue variety has undergone extensive testing to ensure its superior turf quality. With its dense growth and deep green color, this product will enhance the overall appearance of your lawn, creating a beautiful and welcoming outdoor space for you and your family to enjoy.
Best Fine Fescue Grass Seed FAQs
Are there any specific maintenance requirements for fine fescue grass seed once it has been planted?
Yes, there are specific maintenance requirements for fine fescue grass seed once it has been planted. Fine fescue grass seed requires consistent moisture to germinate, so it is important to keep the soil moist until the grass is established. Once the grass is established, it is important to water it deeply but infrequently, as fine fescue prefers drier soil conditions. Additionally, fine fescue grass seed should be fertilized regularly with a slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth. It is also important to regularly mow the grass to a height of 2-3 inches to prevent thatch buildup and promote healthy growth. Finally, fine fescue grass seed should be overseeded every 2-3 years to maintain a healthy and dense lawn. Following these maintenance requirements can help ensure a healthy and attractive fine fescue lawn.
How does fine fescue grass seed compare to other types of grass seed?
Fine fescue grass seed is a popular choice for those looking for a low-maintenance lawn. Compared to other types of grass seed, fine fescue is known for its shade tolerance, drought resistance, and low nutrient requirements. It is also more tolerant to low mowing heights, making it an ideal choice for golf courses and sports fields.
Fine fescue grass seed is available in several varieties, including creeping red, chewings, hard, and sheep. Each variety has its unique characteristics, but all share the same benefits of being low-maintenance and adaptable to different soil types.
In contrast, other types of grass seed, such as Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass, require more maintenance, including regular watering and fertilization. They are also less tolerant to shade and drought conditions and may require more frequent mowing.
Overall, fine fescue grass seed is an excellent choice for those seeking a low-maintenance lawn that is adaptable to various growing conditions and requires less upkeep than other grass types.
How does fine fescue grass seed perform in different climates?
Fine fescue grass seed is a popular choice for lawns, golf courses, and sports fields. This grass type is known for its fine texture, shade tolerance, and low maintenance requirements. The performance of fine fescue grass seed can vary depending on the climate it is grown in.
In cool and humid climates, fine fescue grass seed generally performs well. It can tolerate shade and cooler temperatures, making it an ideal choice for lawns in areas with mild summers. In hot and dry climates, fine fescue grass seed may struggle to thrive. It is not drought-tolerant and may require additional watering to maintain its health.
In general, fine fescue grass seed is best suited for regions with a temperate climate. It is also well-suited for areas with sandy or loamy soil types. If you are unsure whether fine fescue grass seed is the best choice for your specific climate and soil type, it is always a good idea to consult with a local landscaping or lawn care professional for advice.
How long does it take for fine fescue grass seed to germinate?
Fine fescue grass seed typically takes between 7-14 days to germinate, depending on soil temperature and moisture levels. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist during this time to ensure proper germination. Additionally, it is recommended to plant fine fescue grass seed in the fall or spring when soil temperatures range from 50-65 degrees Fahrenheit, as this is the optimal temperature for seed germination. It is also important to note that fine fescue grass seed requires adequate sunlight for germination, so it is important to plant it in areas with at least partial sun exposure. Overall, with proper care and maintenance, fine fescue grass seed can establish a healthy lawn in as little as a few weeks after germination.
How much fine fescue grass seed should be used per square foot?
The amount of fine fescue grass seed to be used per square foot depends on several factors such as the type of fine fescue, the desired thickness of the lawn, and the method of planting. As a general rule of thumb, you should aim to use 4-6 pounds of fine fescue grass seed per 1000 square feet of lawn area. This will achieve a lawn with a moderate density.
However, if you desire a thicker lawn, you may need to use up to 8-10 pounds of fine fescue grass seed per 1000 square feet of lawn area. On the other hand, if you prefer a more open and airy lawn, you can reduce the amount of seed to 2-3 pounds per 1000 square feet of lawn area.
It is important to note that fine fescue grass seed should be sown evenly and at the recommended depth for optimal germination. Additionally, proper watering and fertilization are essential for the health and growth of your fine fescue lawn.
What are the advantages of using fine fescue grass seed over other types of grass seed?
Fine fescue grass seed has several advantages over other types of grass seed. One of the main advantages is its ability to thrive in cool and shady areas, making it an excellent choice for lawns in northern regions. Additionally, fine fescue grass seed is drought-tolerant, which means it can survive and continue to grow even during periods of limited rainfall or water restrictions.
Another advantage of using fine fescue grass seed is its low-maintenance nature. This grass requires less frequent mowing than other types of grasses, making it an ideal choice for those who want to spend less time and effort maintaining their lawn.
Fine fescue grass seed is also known for its ability to form a dense and attractive turf. This can help prevent soil erosion and improve the overall appearance of your lawn.
Overall, fine fescue grass seed is an excellent choice for those looking for a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and attractive grass that can thrive in cool and shady areas.
What are the disadvantages of using fine fescue grass seed?
Although fine fescue grass seed has many benefits, there are also some disadvantages to using it. One of the main disadvantages is that it is not as durable as other types of grasses. Fine fescue is not as tough as other grasses, making it more susceptible to damage from foot traffic, pets, and equipment. Additionally, fine fescue is not as drought-tolerant as other types of grasses, making it less suitable for areas with low rainfall or limited water resources.
Another disadvantage of using fine fescue grass seed is that it requires more maintenance than other types of grasses. Fine fescue requires more frequent watering, fertilization, and mowing than other grasses, which can be time-consuming and expensive. Additionally, fine fescue is more prone to thatch buildup, which can lead to pest and disease problems if not managed properly.
Overall, while fine fescue grass seed has many benefits, it may not be the best choice for every situation. It is important to consider the specific needs of your lawn and the local climate before deciding whether fine fescue is the right choice for you.
What are the ideal growing conditions for fine fescue grass seed?
Fine fescue grass seed is a cool-season grass that grows best in moderate temperatures, with a preference for a temperature range of 60-75°F. It thrives in areas that receive ample sunlight, but it can also tolerate some shade. The ideal soil conditions for fine fescue grass seed include well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. It can also grow in a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It's important to note that fine fescue grass seed cannot tolerate drought conditions, so it's essential to provide adequate irrigation during dry periods. Additionally, to achieve optimal growth, it's recommended to fertilize the fine fescue grass seed with a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. By providing these ideal growing conditions, you can ensure that your fine fescue grass seed will thrive and provide a beautiful, lush lawn.
What are the top-rated brands of fine fescue grass seed?
Fine fescue grass seed is a popular choice among homeowners due to its fine texture, shade tolerance, and low maintenance requirements. There are several top-rated brands of fine fescue grass seed available in the market. One of the most popular brands is Pennington Smart Seed Fescue/Bluegrass Mix, which contains a blend of fine fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass. Another highly-rated brand is Jonathan Green Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed Mix, which is a blend of fine fescue, tall fescue, and perennial ryegrass. Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Fine Fescue Mix and Barenbrug USA Turf Star Regenerating Perennial Ryegrass/Fine Fescue Blend are also among the top-rated brands. It's important to choose a brand that suits your specific needs, such as shade tolerance or drought resistance, and to follow the manufacturer's instructions for planting and maintenance.
What is the expected lifespan of fine fescue grass seed?
The lifespan of fine fescue grass seed can vary depending on several factors such as storage conditions, age and quality of the seed. Under ideal conditions, fine fescue grass seed can last up to 2-3 years while retaining its germination rate. However, if the seed is not stored properly, exposed to high humidity or temperature, or is of poor quality, its lifespan can be significantly reduced. In addition, certain varieties of fine fescue grass have a shorter lifespan than others. It's important to purchase high-quality seed from reputable sources and store it in a cool, dry place to maximize its lifespan. If you are unsure about the quality or age of your fine fescue grass seed, it may be helpful to conduct a germination test before planting to ensure good results.
