An easy-to-maintain lawn is the dream of many homeowners. Unfortunately, not many of them live up to that claim. The one that does is tall fescue grass.
Tall fescue grass varies a lot from other strains. To begin with, it has more full leaf blades compared to fine fescues. Its ability to withstand heat and drought is not only admirable but labor-saving. After all, no sane person would relish the thought of redoing their lawn every other season-it’s tedious.
Above all, tall fescues create an amazing shade without demanding for crazy amounts of water and nutrients. Nevertheless, you still need to invest in the best fertilizer for tall fescue grass if you want to see your lawn brave the toughest seasons.
Besides reviewing the best lawn fertilizers, the article will shine some light on the following:
- The right time to apply fertilizer
- The key ingredients in the fertilizer
- The best ways to use fescue grass fertilizer
The Top Five Fertilizers for Tall Fescue Grass
| Parameter | The Andersons | Simple Lawn Solutions | The Andersons Innova | Miracle-Gro | Medina |
| N-P2O5-K2O | 16-4-8 | 16-4-8 | 7-1-2 | 12-4-8 | 12-4-8 |
| Available sizes | 18 lbs; 40 lbs | 32 once | 40 lbs | 32 once | 10 lbs |
| Naturality | Non-organic | Non-organic | Organic | Organic | Non-organic |
| Coverage (per lbs) | 5,000 | 3,200 | 4,000 | 20 | 12,000 |
| Frequency of use | 6-8 weeks | Monthly | 2-3 months | 1-2 weeks | Monthly |
The Andersons – Best All-Season Fertilizer for Tall Fescue Grass
The Andersons Fertilizer is ideal for those who are looking for an all in one professional-grade lawn fertilizer. The package consists of superfine particles that allow for better and even distribution. When in the ground, it releases Humic DG, a soil conditioner that improves soil structure while revitalizing the grass’ ability to absorb nutrients.
Mixed at a ratio of 16-4-8, this product sticks to the recommended proportions that stimulate law growth in a matter of days. The small amounts of iron create a dark green cover that is often seen in golf courses and other top-level sports turfs.
The Andersons delivers quick outcomes when there is sufficient water. Otherwise, you’ll need to be patient for a while. This all-season fertilizer needs to be reapplied after 6 to 8 weeks.
Pros
- Superfine particles for even distribution
- Improves nutrient processing
- It is ideal for all seasons
- Improves the green coloration
- Mixed in recommended proportions
Cons
- It’s a slow-release and takes some time to display satisfactory results.
Simple Lawn Solution – Best Liquid Fertilizer for Tall Fescue Grass
Simple Lawn Solution takes effect right away because it is in liquid form. Once it dissolves, the grass absorbs it directly. Solid varieties, on the other hand, take some time to show results.
Composition-wiser, this lawn fertilizer comes in the recommended ratio of 16-4-8. This means, your grass will receive sufficient nutrients and green up to a magnificent level. Some of its ingredients improve root support and the general health of plants.
Being in liquid form, this fertilizer is easy to apply. Just point and spray. However, you are still advised to adequately water your grass to promote faster absorption.
Use it monthly to get the result.
Pros
- Perfectly blended for lawn growth
- Easy to use compared to solid varieties
- Useful for other grass types like Zoysia, Bermuda, Kentucky Bluegrass, etc.
- Enhances soil texture
- Consists of seaweed and fish for better performance
Cons
- Use it monthly to see the result.
The Andersons Innova – Best Fertilizer for New Tall Fescue Grass
Andersons Innova is all-natural plant-based fertilizer that is not only safe to the grass and the soil but to kids, sensitive-waterways, and pets as well. Its composition boasts of a generous amount of amino acids that release nitrogen slowly into the soil for an extended period. Nitrogen boosts both the health of the soil and grass.
The fertilizer supplies ample amounts of highly digestible carbon that ameliorates the functioning of the soil microbes. Here’s another good news; the fertilizer doesn’t carry any over-application risks that include burning of the grass.
Andersons Innova doesn’t consist of animal products, manure, treated sewage, and other wastes. Therefore it is free from unsettling odors. Thanks to its efficiency, it is the best fertilizer for new fescue grass in spring or summer. In case you didn’t know, the product is USDA and OMRI-approved.
Pros
- Organically produced thus safe and effective
- Doesn’t burn the grass
- Safe around kids and pets
- Certified by USDA and OMRI
- Devoid of obnoxious odors
Cons
- Cost a bit more than other fertilizers serving the same purpose
Miracle-Gro – Best Organic Fertilizer for Tall Fescue Grass
Not sure what fertilizer will work for your grass? The best way around this problem is by going for all-purpose varieties like Miracle-Gro All Purpose Plant Food. This fertilizer knows no limits. It can be used on garden flowers, trees, fescue grass, vegetables, and even shrubs.
So basically, this is the one product that will promote attractive blooms of all vegetation in your compound. The mixture comprises nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the usual 12-4-8. However, improper use could kill your plants so stick to the directions provided on the package.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Recommended 3-1-2 ratio
- Provides impressive results in a short time
- Suitable for all turf types, plants, vegetables and trees
Cons
- Too much could kill your plants
Medina – Best Fertilizer for Fescue Grass
Medina 12-4-8 is another option for those who prefer to deal with liquid fertilizers. When applied to grass, it gets quickly absorbed producing a greener cover within a week.
The fertilizer is loaded with all the ingredients that generate the right conditions for the growth – no matter the season. Humate Liquid and Medina Soil Activator bring the soil back to life while potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen provide all the necessary nutrients for a vibrant performance.
Medina HastaGro is made from natural substances and therefore no need to worry about your plants burning up. For better results and less wastage, you can use a sprayer or attach the bottle to the garden horse.
Pros
- Quickly absorbed by grass
- Ideal for all seasons
- Activates soil microbes
- Easy to use
- Naturally produced and thus safe for use
Cons
- Limited to lawn only
Buyer’s Guide
When should I fertilize fescue?
When planting fescue seeds, you obviously need to use a starter fertilizer. This should be done again after 4-8 weeks when the seeds have fully germinated. Since fescues are cool-season plants, the ideal time to fertilize is in the winter, early spring and fall. Make sure to carry out a soil test to know what amount to apply.
What is the best fertilizer for fescue grass seed?
During planting, most plants’ seeds (fescues included) need higher amounts of phosphorus to stimulate root growth. So basically any fertilizer with adequate phosphorus will do okay. After germination, you no longer need to use starter fertilizer as it doesn’t contain enough nutrients for established grass. The Andersons or Simple Lawn Solutions could be the best choice.
What is the best fertilizer for tall fescue?
Any fertilizer that comprises nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (N-P-K) in the ratio of 3-1-2 works fine. There are additional rules though. For instance, experts recommend those with a slow-release formula than the soluble counterparts.
Soluble fertilizers get absorbed directly and give you vibrant results in a rush-usually within 4-6 weeks before the supply is depleted. Slow-release forms, on the other hand, may not be available instantly but once they start flowing, the cycle continues for two to three months.
Can I fertilize fescue grass in USDA Zone 7 in the summer?
It is considered cruel to fertilize fescue grasses in the extreme temperatures of the summer. This is because the grass is trying to cope with high temperatures yet you are forcing it to grow more top. While this is not a good movie, you could succeed if you keep the lawn well irrigated and resort to fertilizers with lower nitrogen value.
When should I apply starter fertilizer?
It is best to apply starter fertilizer before or after seeding. Mixing the two right away will result in the seeds getting burned. Remember to water-in the seeds to speed up their breakdown for uniform distribution.
FAQ
What is the best fertilizer for fescue grass summer?
Medina and The Andersons fit all seasons.
What is the best fertilizer for tall fescue grass in Delaware?
Any N-P-K fertilizer (e.g., The Andersons) in the 16-4-8 ratio will suffice.
What fertilizer should you use for fescue grass in Alabama?
The fertilizer to buy will depend on your soil’s ph.
What kind of fertilizer can you use for fescue grass in June?
June is hot and thus any all-season fertilizer (e.g., The Andersons) will do.
Wrap up
Naturally, very few lawns can remain green throughout all the seasons. You must invest some time and effort into them so your home can have an appeal that makes visitors go “wow.” For those with tall fescue grasses, the most important move is to buy the best fertilizer for fescue grass.
Given the overwhelming choices out there, it can still be daunting to get the best results. That’s why we have reviewed some of the top choices worth their salt. Make sure to do an analysis of your soil to know which type will work best for your lawn.