Fine Fescue Mowing, Aeration and Dethatching
Fine Fescue Dethatching
General Recommendation on Fine Fescue dethatching – If there is more then 1/2” of thatch present (Thatch is the presence of dead leaves and stems that build up on the surface of the soil). You should power rake in the spring or fall.
Authors Note – I generally dislike dethatching for the simple reason that it has a tendency to damage turf, this is especially true for grasses that spread via rhizomes. My preference is to aerate as aerating breaks up the thatch and helps it along in the decomposition process. If dethatching is necessary, use a dethatcher that cuts and lifts through the thatch.
Fine Fescue Mowing
Fescue can be mowed to various heights. Heights of 2-3 inchesare the recommended range. I prefer two inches as it leaves a clean looking cut. a 2″ height also avoids drawing too much water out of the root system during dry periods.
Fine Fescue Aeration
It is recommended that the lawn be core aerated once a year. Aeration opens up the soil to allow water and nutrients in to the root system. It also encourages root growth and is a great practice in almost any type of lawn. Aerating is also a great time to fertilize and lime your lawn as it allows these additions to get deep into the soil. Giving the root system a chance to better absorb them. Please refer to the section on general aeration and dethatching.
