TechNotes Tips - 04.11.02

Early spring temperature fluctuations can cause sporadic turfgrass growth. Proper mowing is critical to the maintenance of a high quality lawn. If rapid turfgrass growth occurs, infrequent mowing will result in scalping of the turf. Of the cool season turfgrasses, tall fescue will start growth the soonest with perennial ryegrass following. Kentucky bluegrass is usually the slowest to start growth. The frequency of mowing should be timed to remove no more than 1/3rd the leaf tissue. The mowing height range for the major cool season turfgrasses is listed below.

Kentucky bluegrass lawns containing tall fescue are quite obvious this time. The tall fescue patches are actively growing while the Kentucky bluegrass is still slow to start growth. The noticeable appearance of these patches often results in homeowners complaining about this “weed”. Tall fescue control is difficult. In most situations, once the Kentucky bluegrass begins to grow the tall fescue patches will not be as obvious to the homeowner.