Managing Wiregrass in Kentucky 31 Tall Fescue Lawns

Understanding the Challenge

Wiregrass (bermudagrass) invades cool-season lawns like Kentucky 31 tall fescue. Because both are grasses, selective herbicides are largely ineffective—broad-spectrum products like glyphosate (Roundup) kill both.

Two Strategic Approaches

Option 1: Spot Renovation (Fall)

1. Spot-spray wiregrass patches with glyphosate in early fall.
2. Once dead, remove debris, prepare soil, and reseed with Kentucky 31.
3. Keep seeded areas moist until established.

Option 2: Cultural Suppression (Long-Term)

Favor Kentucky 31 with optimal maintenance:

• Mow high (3–3.5 inches) every 7–10 days with sharp blades.
• Fall core aeration, overseeding, and 3/8-inch compost topdressing.
• No spring nitrogen fertilization.

Over 3+ years, wiregrass, bermudagrass, plantain, and other weeds decline naturally as the fescue dominates. Driveway edges may still need targeted treatment.

Why This Works

Tall fescue's deep roots and bunching habit outcompete wiregrass when given cultural advantages. Chemical shortcuts often worsen the problem by weakening the desirable turf.