How To Take Care of Your Fescue Lawn
In West Sacramento, CA

Maintaining a healthy fescue lawn in West Sacramento, California requires attention to several key factors, including watering, fertilization, mowing, and weed control.

TLDR: In Hot Weather, water deeply. In Cold Weather less frequently. Fertilize in Summer(balanced fertilizer) Spring and Fall(fertilizer with higher phosphorus content, Add mulched leaves as natural fertilizer). Mow your fescue lawn closer to 4 inches to prevent weed infestation. Use pre-emergent in late Fall & early Spring to prevent weeds from sprouting

Watering is one one of the most important aspects of fescue lawn care in West Sacramento. Fescue is a cool-season grass that thrives in the mild winters and hot summers of West Sacramento (Zone 9a) , but it does require regular watering to stay green and healthy. In the West Sac summer months, fescue lawns should be watered deeply and infrequently, to encourage deep root growth and drought tolerance. In the west Sac winter months, fescue lawns should be watered less frequently, as the cooler temperatures and shorter days reduce the grass’s water needs.

Fertilization is also crucial for maintaining a healthy fescue lawn in West Sacramento. Fescue is a high-maintenance grass that requires regular fertilization to stay green and vigorous.  Slow-release nitrogen fertilizer can help promote new growth and green-up the lawn in the Spring time. In the summer, a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can help maintain the grass’s color and growth. In the fall, a fertilizer with a higher phosphorus content can help the grass prepare for the winter months. Since west sacramento has no shortage of leaves, leaving mulched leaves on the lawn will act as a natural fertilizer. 

Mowing is another important aspect of fescue lawn care in West Sacramento. Never mow than 1/3 of your fescue grass blade. Fescue should be mowed regularly to maintain a healthy, dense lawn. In the spring and fall, fescue should be mowed at a height of 3-4 inches, to promote a thick, healthy turf. In the summer, when the grass is growing more quickly, fescue should be mowed more frequently, to keep it from getting too tall and going to seed.

Weed control is also essential for maintaining a healthy fescue lawn in West Sacramento. Weeds can compete with fescue for water, nutrients, and sunlight, leading to a thin, patchy lawn. To control weeds, regular mowing and fertilization can help keep the grass healthy and competitive. In addition, applying a pre-emergent weed killer in the early spring can help prevent weed seeds from germinating, and applying a post-emergent weed killer can help control existing weeds. Pro Tip: Mowing your lawn closer to 4 inches year round will allow your fescue lawn to outcompete weeds. 

Maintaining a healthy fescue lawn in West Sacramento requires regular attention to watering, fertilization, mowing, and weed control. By following these tips, you can help your fescue lawn thrive and stay green and healthy throughout the year