Fertilizing Fescue: Understanding Rates and Slow-Release Options

The recommendation to fertilize fescue three to four times a year is based on delivering a specific amount of actual nitrogen—typically one pound per 1,000 square feet per application. The fertilizer analysis determines the product rate.

For example, 10 pounds of 10-10-10 supplies one pound of nitrogen. A slow-release turf fertilizer like 25-2-7 only requires four pounds to deliver the same nitrogen. Slow-release products are preferred because their coated granules feed the lawn steadily over two months, reducing surge growth and nutrient runoff compared to quick-release fertilizers like 10-10-10.