How to Take Care of Blue Fescue

Blue fescue is a tolerant ornamental grass that grows in mounds. It is valued for its unique, semi-evergreen blue color and radiating shape. When mature, it can reach 10' by 10', the perfect size for a decorative border in a rock garden or for placement among light-colored perennials. Blue fescue needs attention, but is easy to care for as long as you know what it needs.

Things You'll Need

• Mulch

Instructions

1. Plant the blue fescue in the early spring. Choose an area with well-drained, fertile soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is tolerant of dry and poor-quality soil but will not withstand poorly drained, wet soil.

2. Spread a two-inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to prevent weeds and retain moisture.

3. During the first few weeks after planting, water the plant when it gets dry. Do not over-water, as this may cause the plant to die from the center outwards. As long as the soil is well drained, this should not be a problem.

4. Prune the plant when flowers appear. This will encourage new foliage. The flowers are insignificant and only hinder growth, so you may cut off the longer flowering stems in the summer, as soon as they appear.

5. Cut the plant back to 1/3 of its size in the spring to help it keep its shape. Divide the mounds frequently to promote new growth.

References

• Ohio State University Plant Facts
• University of Illinois Extension
• North Carolina State University Ornamental Grasses