How Long Does it Take for Fescue Seed to Germinate?

Approximately 100 species of fescue grasses exist, according to the Texas A&M University's website. A cool-season perennial grass, it produces a deep root system. Once seeded, keep the seedbed moist but not waterlogged for two to three weeks to encourage germination and then begin to gradually reduce the irrigation as the seedlings grow.

Fescue seeds takes approximately 14 to 21 days to germinate. Soil temperature, outdoor temperature, oxygen soil levels and water all affect how quickly the seeds germinate. Cover the seeds lightly with soil when spread and lightly compact the soil to help ensure germination occurs.

Fescue grass seeds germinate best when the soil temperature is 50 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. The daytime air temperature should be between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Fall planting is the ideal time to plant fescue, but spring planting can also be successful.

Avoid planting fescue grass seeds if the temperature is below 50 degrees Fahrenheit or above 90 degrees Fahrenheit because the seeds will enter dormancy and not germinate. Immature seedlings can also be killed in a hard freeze or frost.