Growing and Care of the Blue Fescue Plant
The blue fescue is an ornamental grass that deserves our attention. This plant gets its name from the color of its blades or leaves which are blue-grayish. Zones 4 through 8 are ideal for this ornamental wonder. The blue fescue makes an added attraction that can bring that WOW, this evergreen beauty has tipped steams which produces tall flowers. Investing in these perennials is worth every dollar.
This fescue which is a show stopper grows in clumps and is very versatile so if you are interested in growing and caring for these ornamental grasses then continue reading as we journey in the world of these garden wonders.
Planting Location
Because the blue fescue grass loves full sun it is best to provide a location for them that meets this description. These grasses should be placed 8-10 inches apart.
Soil Type
Although the blue fescue will tolerate poor soils it is best to install these grasses in well-drained soil.
Watering Methods
With the coming of summer, it is best to give your blue fescue a weekly watering.
Fertilizing Methods
The use of a slow-release fertilizer such as triple ten will work wonders also a two-inch layer of mulch around your plant will help because as the mulch decomposes it will add nutrients to the soil. Before applying fertilizer read and follow the manufacturer’s label because the label is the law.
Propagating the blue fescue ornamental grass
These grasses though a show stopper needs a little help because you will notice that after a few years the center of these grasses will turn brown not to worry because following these tips can help.
1. Remove the plant from the ground with a shovel or pickax
2. Cut the clamp in two and discard the brown parts.
3. Replant the clamps after these procedures. Each clamp should be spaced about 6-8 inches apart.
4. Give sufficient water to moisten the soil.
5. Ensure that the soil does not dry out completely because the goal is to keep the soil somewhat moist so the plant can establish.
Garden insect pest of the blue fescue plants
As far as I know, there are no serious insect pests issues of the blue fescue.
Diseases of the blue fescue plant
There are no major disease issues when it comes to this ornamental grass.
Where to install the blue fescue plant
Here are some ideas on where to install the blue fescue grass.
1. Install them in your garden plant bed as a front drop.
2. Plant them alongside a fence.
3. What about installing them alongside a wall.
4. They will look great planted alongside a garden walkway.
5. Planting them along a driveway will look great.
Blue fescue seedlings
Things you will need.
1. Seeds.
2. Pots.
3. Good garden potting soil.
4. Watering can or showerhead wand.
Growing the blue fescue from seed
Another way to grow fescue ornamental grass is from seeds.
Starting the seeds of the blue fescue grass 5-8 weeks indoors before the last winter frost is a great way to add these beauties to your spring garden. Below is a guide on how to start these plants from seeds.
1. Ensure that the plant pots are in good repair with drain holes to allow excess water to drain.
2. Good potting soil is ideal, fill the pots with the soil leaving about an inch or two spacing just under the lip of the pot.
3. Sow 6 seeds in the soil each seed should be an inch apart and about an inch deep.
4. The soil should be watered gently because what you don’t want is to disturb the seeds or cause them to wash away. Using a showerhead wand is a great tool to have because you can adjust the wand where the water comes out gently. This tool can be purchased from your plant nursery or garden center.
5. The should be somewhat moist and not waterlogged. Do not allow the soil to dry out completely because this time is critical for your seedlings and do not overwater because the seedling can rot.
6. After a few weeks, once your seedlings have reached anywhere from 3 inches and over they ready to transfer outdoors to enjoy that spring sun.
Container grown blue fescue ornamental grass
Another way to grow this ornamental grass is from a container.
1. The container should have drain holes to allow excess water to drain.
2. Use good potting soil that is well-drained but will be able to hold adequate water.
3. Install your plants ensuring that it is erect.
4. Firm the soil around your grass
5. Water your grass until the water comes out of the drain holes
6. Ensure that the soil dries out somewhat before watering again.
7. The pots can be placed in full to partial sunlight on your porch or patio.
Additional Information
1. Blue fescue turns brown in the winter.
2. It is best to place a three-inch layer of mulch around this plant to help to suppress weeds, conserve water and as the mulch decomposes it adds nutrients to the soil also the mulch will add to the beautification.
3. Short periods of drought will slow the plant’s growth.
4. This grass is deer resistant.
5. The blue fescue is drought tolerant.
6. Attracts birds.
The final word
The blue fescue ornamental grass is an amazing plant to add to your garden and landscape design, why not give this evergreen a try. I am sure you will be happy with the results as your garden area takes on a different look and feel. The blue fescue has earned its way on the list of ornamental grasses, many homeowners are happy with the results of these plants. With that said let’s get started with these garden beauties.
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About the author
Norman loves being in the garden, both at home and for his job....
he is 'Natures Little helper' being outdoors, growing his vegetables and flowers from an early age.
Now having spent over 22 years in the profession he want to give some of his knowledge to others...
his vast array of hints and tips you will find scattered over this site will help you no end growing plants in your garden.