Sheep Fescue Grass

Sheep fescue is a fine-textured, cool-season perennial bunchgrass prized for its low-growing, tufted habit and exceptional adaptability. Native to Europe and well-suited to North American climates, this grass forms dense clumps just 6–12 inches tall, making it an ideal partner for wildflower meadows, rock gardens, and water-wise landscapes.

Key Characteristics & Benefits

Meadow-Style Aesthetic: Its soft blue-green foliage creates a naturalistic “blanket” effect, perfect for transitional areas between turf and flower beds.

Drought & Low-Input Tolerance: Once established, sheep fescue thrives on rainfall alone in regions receiving as little as 12–15 inches of annual precipitation. It requires minimal supplemental irrigation, mowing, or fertilization.

Weed Suppression & Soil Stabilization: The plant’s extensive, fibrous roots choke out weeds and bind soil particles—making it an excellent choice for slopes, road verges, and riparian buffers.

Disease & Pest Resistance: Unlike many turfgrasses, sheep fescue resists common fungal diseases (e.g., brown patch, dollar spot) and deters insect pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.

Primary Uses

Ornamental Lawns & Seed-Free “No-Mow” Turf: Creates a soft, springy surface that can be mowed infrequently (once or twice per season) or left unmown for a meadow look.

Pollinator & Wildflower Meadows: Its fine clumps allow wildflower stems to emerge unimpeded, supporting bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects.

Erosion Control: Ideal for embankments, roadside plantings, and drainage swales where soil anchoring is critical.

Xeriscape & Water-Wise Gardens: Blends seamlessly with other drought-tolerant perennials and ornamental grasses.

Planting & Maintenance

Seeding Rate: 4–6 lb per 1,000 ft² in pure stands; reduce to 2–3 lb when mixed with wildflowers or other low-growing grasses.

Planting Window: Early spring or early fall, when soil temperatures are between 50–65 °F.

Soil Requirements: Adaptable to sandy, loamy, or moderately rocky soils; prefers well-drained sites but tolerates light compaction.

Mowing & Trimming: Clip to 3–4 inches in late spring to remove winter debris and encourage fresh growth. After establishment, occasional light trimming maintains neat edges.

Fertilization: Generally unnecessary; for improved color, a single light application of low-rate, slow-release nitrogen in early spring is sufficient.

Ideal For

Homeowners seeking a low-maintenance, meadow-style lawn

Landscapers creating wildlife-friendly or water-efficient plantings

Roadside and stormwater management projects needing erosion control

Designers of ornamental gardens, rockeries, and informal pathways

With its blend of visual appeal, resilience, and ecological function, sheep fescue offers a versatile solution wherever a soft, natural groundcover is desired—bringing both beauty and performance to your landscape.