RESCUE THE FESCUE: Fall Planting Guide Under Water Restrictions

Early October triggers fescue planting frenzy, but water rules complicate irrigation. Dr. Gil Landry (UGA) emphasizes good seed-to-soil contact as the key. Here’s his step-by-step for new and existing lawns.

New Lawns

• Rototill 6″ deep; amend clay with 1–3 cu yd organic matter/1000 sq ft.
• Seed 4–6 lbs/1000 sq ft; rake/drag to cover.
• Mulch 60–80 lbs wheat straw/1000 sq ft.

Existing Lawns

• ≤50% coverage: Verticut (blades touch soil).
• ≥50% coverage: Core aerate (10+ holes/sq ft); irrigate 2 days prior.
• Mow 1 notch lower before seeding.
• Seed 3–5 lbs/1000 sq ft; drag to cover.
• Light straw on bare spots.

Watering Schedule (Adjust for Odd/Even Rules)

• Days 1–10: ¼–½″ daily (morning) as allowed.
• Days 11–24: ½″ every 4 days.
• Days 25–38: ¾″ every 6 days.
• Then: 1″/week.

Fertilizing

• Starter at seeding OR wait for “green fuzz” (10–14 days).
• Then Nov, Feb, Apr with turf fertilizer.

Follow local watering windows (e.g., no 4–10 PM statewide; odd/even systems vary).