Fescue – Sand

Sand Fescue (Festuca ammobia) is one of the shortest native perennial grasses that we have, growing between 8-24″ tall.  Foliage is green but turns a grey-blue color in the summer time.  According to the “USDA Plant Fact Sheet” its native habitat is along the Pacific Northwest coast in gravel, between rocks and along stream banks in moist to moderate dry soils.  It can be found growing in a broad range of soil types.  This grass spreads by rhizomes and develops extensive roots which give it excellent sand binding capabilities for use in erosion control on beaches and stream banks.  This grass also makes a great forage for wildlife and livestock such as cattle and horses. Because of its short growing characteristics it works great for use between vineyard and berry crops as well.  Another use of this grass is for a low-maintenance turf and ornamental landscaping.  Fall planting is the best time to plant this grass.  This grass occurs naturally in wetland as well as upper dryland areas. According to USDA,  “Sand fescue seed germinates readily, indicating dormancy is low or nonexistent in most populations. Fall sowing is preferred to reduce the need for irrigation the following spring and summer. Establishment is slow and plants seldom flower the first full growing season. Where weed competition is expected to be high, fertilization should be postponed for the first six months or more. There are 365,000 to 500,000 seeds/lb.  Suggested seeding rates for general revegetation are 4-10 lbs/ac when drilled alone at a depth of ¼ to ½ in. If broadcast sown, rates are often increased 1.5 to 2 times this amount. For turf, a rate of 1 lb/1000 sq. ft. has been recommended. As with many grasses to be planted on initially poor quality soils, an organic mulch or compost amendment can benefit establishment and growth. ” This information and more can be found at this link:  https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_PLANTMATERIALS/publications/orpmcfs10666.pdf