Weeds: Tall or Coarse Fescue - Plant Insect, Disease and Environmental Problem Information from PlantsGalore.Com

In older, long established lawns, you might notice a somewhat circular patch of an unusually thick leaved, coarse textured grass that is a lighter green color than the rest of the turf. The odds are that this is a weed grass called tall or coarse fescue (Festuca arundinacea).

There are now also what are called "turf type tall fescues" which are cultivars of this plant that may be used in areas where a tough, utility grass is desired.

There is no simple solution to this problem. Currently, there are no herbicides that will kill this type of weedy grass and not also kill the desirable species like Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass or fine fescue. So, you will need to treat the weed grass and a small area surrounding it with an herbicide such as glyphosate which will kill it all. Then, work up the soil and replant with a desirable seed mixture.

Note: For some perennial weedy grasses, there may be herbicides which will selectively kill them and not kill other species of grass. Check with your local Extension Service office for the availability of such products in your area.

Note: We have provided some general information and observations on this topic aimed at the home gardener. Before you take any serious action in your landscape, check with your state's land grant university's Cooperative Extension Service for the most current, appropriate, localized recommendations.