Fine Fescue

Fine Fescue (Festuca rubra spp.) is the name used to describe a number of different temperate turf types including chewings fescue, hard fescue, sheeps fescue, and creeping or red fescue. Fine Fescue is a straightforward lawn species to maintain due to its density and resistance to chemicals, making removal of foreign grasses and broadleaf weeds easy. Fine fescue will generally go into dormancy during our hot summers however, expect a recovery in Autumn. Fine fescue is ideal for low-maintenance lawns, shady areas, and cool climates. Known for its soft feel, needle-like leaves, and low nutrient/water requirements

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Benefits of Fine Fescue

• Extremely  fine texture – superior for ornamental or formal lawns
• Low  maintenance – minimal mowing, fertiliser, and water needed
• Excellent  shade performance – ideal under trees or next to buildings
• Cool-season  performance – remains green in frosts and cold
• Blends  well with ryegrass for mixed-use lawns

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Limitations

• Poor  wear tolerance – not ideal for kids, pets, or sports areas
• Not  heat-tolerant – struggles in high heat or summer drought without irrigation
• Non-spreading (for most types) – does not self-repair like kikuyu or couch
• Can become patchy if neglected or poorly irrigated in summer

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Ideal uses

Ornamental / showcase lawns

Shaded areas under trees

Low-traffic residential lawns