Fescue and Bermuda grasses are the most common choices when it comes to growing a lush, grassy landscape. Both types of grass can be used in a variety of places, ranging from residential lawns to golf courses. However, there are obvious differences between creeping red Fescue seed and Bermuda grass seed.
1. Growing Seasons
Bermuda grass is known as a warm-season turfgrass that has a C4 plant metabolism. In other words, Bermuda grass can grow best between 75 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. As the temperatures slowly decrease in the fall season, their growth starts to slow down, and eventually, during the winter months, Bermuda grass becomes dormant.
On the other hand, creeping red fine Fescue is known to grow the best during the cool season since it has a C3 plant metabolism. Its optimum growth temperatures lie anywhere from 55 F to 75 F. What does creeping red Fescue look like during the summer? Contrary to Bermuda grass, the Fescue plant can become more susceptible to insect damage and diseases during the summer months when the temperature is much higher. Its growth can also slow down eventually.
2. Fertilizer
Both the creeping red Fescue seeding rate and that of Bermuda grass can increase using the same amount of nitrogen fertilizer. However, the timing required for each fertilizer is quite different. The best time to use fertilizer on Bermuda grass is from late spring to early fall when the grass grows best in warm weather. However, fertilizer for Bermuda grass should be avoided during other times of the year since it won’t give the best results.
On the other hand, the right time to apply fertilizer to the Fescue plant is during the spring and fall months.
3. Characteristics & Qualities
Bermuda grass is known for its dark green color, while Fescue is also available in a similar color range. Bermuda grass can grow up to two inches in height, whereas Fescue can grow even longer, up to four feet. Moreover, Bermuda grass is easily identifiable through its coarse texture and roots that protrude over the ground, called stolons. Small hairs are also available across the grass near the stem and blade.
On the other hand, Fescue grass is easily identified by its wide leaf blades. It has equal-sized veins that basically run parallel to the leaf. Plus, it does not have the central vein called the midrib, which is usually available in other common grasses.
4. Other Qualities
Both Bermuda grass and Fescue grass have specific capabilities, making them some of the best choices on the market. When it comes to Bermuda grass, it is known to be resistant to drought and heat. It also shows signs of aggressive growth, especially during its preferred temperature range. The Bermuda grass also reports fewer pest issues as compared to other mainstream grasses. On the other hand, it requires very little maintenance to grow well.
Fescue grass also has a variety of qualities that make it a preferred option. It can grow well in shaded areas and does not require a lot of sunlight. Just like Bermuda grass, it is also resistant to heat and drought. Furthermore, it can withstand wear and tear better than traditional grasses.
How To Select The Right Type of Grass?
There are various things that need to be considered when it comes to selecting the right turfgrass variety. Some factors that should be considered include the quality of the creeping red Fescue seed, maintenance habits, and site conditions.
For instance, if the environment of the site is generally colder, then creeping red Fescue seed will be the right grass to plant. Similarly, if the temperature across the site is quite warm, then it will be best to choose grass that can do well in the heat. Bermuda grass is better than Fescue when it comes to tolerating drought.
Although it is preferred that both Bermuda and Fescue grass be given a sunny enough environment, if the planting site does not invite a lot of sunlight, Fescue grass will be a better option. Both types of grass also don’t require a lot of maintenance. However, the Fescue and Bermuda hybrid varieties require more fertilizer and, hence, more maintenance. It is also important to remember that both grass types require different lawnmowers.
Overall, it is said that Bermuda grass is best for sunny and hot areas that attract average to low traffic. On the other hand, Fescue can survive in high-traffic areas such as athletic fields, walkways, and even hills where a lot of sunlight is not always available. If the soil is also prone to compaction in the area, Fescue grass is a better option.
Conclusion
Both Fescue and Bermuda grass are known for producing lush, green landscapes. These grasses have been long preferred for golf courses and football grounds. There are many shops where strong creeping red Fescue seeds and Bermuda grass seeds can be found since they are readily available. The grass type you choose eventually comes down to the overall landscape of the area. Contact us for the best quality creeping red Fescue seed or other grass seeds and more!