Cool Season Perennial
Tall Fescue is an upright perennial bunchgrass. There are two main types, endophyte and endophyte-free varieties. Forage species will be the endophyte-free varieties, where turf varieties rely on the endophyte relationship. Tall Fescue is a relatively tough plant. Deep root system gives it moderate drought tolerance and moderate winter hardiness, tolerant of shading, salinity, and short term flooding. It is well adapted to stockpiled fall and winter grazing. The leaves are stiff and will stick through a light snow, enabling easier grazing. Tall Fescue has moderate regrowth speed and will maintain its presence in a blend.
Seeds per pound: 227,000 Seeds/sq ft/pound 6.2
Uses:
- Erosion control
- Soil builder
- Nitrogen scavenger
- Weed suppression
- Grazing potential
- Hay potential
Strengths:
- Adaptable plant
- Drought tolerance
- Salinity tolerance
Concerns:
Relatively lower feed value during the summer.
Grazing:
Very good. Low growing point, good regrowth. Good for stockpiled fall or winter grazing.
Hay:
Fair. Can produce basal leaves making it difficult to cut.
Mycorrhizal support? Yes
