A. During the cold weather, warm season turf grasses such as Bermuda and Zoysia are dormant. However, a lot is still going on “behind the scenes.” Their root systems are still active and require nutrients and water to remain healthy for the spring. Also, weeds can (and usually do) begin to emerge due to the fact , just like other plants, different weeds have different times that they germinate and thrive; weeds that appear in January through March are different than weeds that thrive in the hotter months. These weeds use the nutrients and moisture in the soil that should be for your turf grass. During these periods, weed control is applied to eradicate these weeds to help the turf get ready for the spring.
 
Fescue is a cool season turf grass, which means it thrives and grows in the cool weather. As such, it requires nutrients as well. Plus, there is the weed situation that must be dealt with for optimum health of your turf.
 
With your Round 1 and 2 applications, we are also applying pre-emergents to help prevent seed-bearing annual weeds (such as crabgrass) from germinating and taking over your lawn during the early spring-summer months. Pre-emergents are your best defense against such weeds, and make for a healthier lawn to enjoy all Spring and Summer!

A. Seeding fescue can be tricky at times, depending on where you live and the conditions present when you apply the seed. Watering is paramount, but too much water (torrential rains) can cause seed to rot or simply wash away. Too little watering can inhibit the growth of rhizomes (roots) from the seed. Plus, birds tend to love fescue seed. Also if a pre- emergent was applied it can become a major factor in the seed not germinating. If a pre-emergent was applied then it is crucial that the areas where you plan to apply seed the dirt gets disturbed very well to break the barrier of the pre- emergent so that the seed will germinate in those areas.  However, it is possible to seed in the early spring and have a thicker turf. The suggested time-frame is around Easter, once we are clear of frost conditions. It is only recommended to apply fescue seed in the spring if you have total bare spots. Generally only 20-30% of the seed you apply will make it through the summer.
 
Remember: Fescue tends to get pale in high temperatures (75 degrees or above) and requires watering to keep it looking healthy. Fescue is also susceptible to fungus such as Brown Patch and this occurs in high humidity. Check out our information here on proper watering and mowing procedures for fescue and look for details and savings on preventative fungicide treatments to keep your fescue looking great all year long!