SouthernTurf

It’s going to be a hot week! Owners of fescue lawns, please read

Fescue grass, particularly tall fescue, is a cool-season grass, which means it thrives in temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). When exposed to 100°F (38°C) heat, fescue can struggle significantly. Here's how it typically reacts:

🔥 Heat Stress Symptoms
Wilting and discoloration: Grass blades may wilt, turn grayish-blue, or brown.
Slow growth or dormancy: Fescue may stop growing or go dormant to conserve resources.
Thinning: Heat-stressed fescue often thins out, making room for w**ds or invasive grasses.
Increased disease risk: High heat and humidity can trigger fungal diseases like brown patch.
🌿 How to Help It Survive
Water deeply and early: About 1 to 1.5 inches per week, ideally in the morning to avoid evaporation and fungal growth.
Mow high: Keep blades at 3–4 inches to shade the soil and reduce stress.
Avoid fertilizing: High-nitrogen fertilizers in extreme heat can burn the grass.
Minimize foot traffic: Stress can worsen with frequent use.