Chewings fescue, also known as Festuca rubra commutata, is a type of grass that is similar to creeping red fescue. However, there is a slight difference in its growth pattern. While creeping red fescue tends to spread and fill in bare areas, chewings fescue grows more as a bunch grass rather than a spreader.
In my experience as a gardening and landscaping expert, I have observed that chewings fescue tends to have slower growth and recovery rates compared to other grass varieties. This means that it may take longer for bare areas to be filled in and for the grass to bounce back from wear and tear.
One of the reasons for the slower spread of chewings fescue is its growth habit as a bunch grass. Bunch grasses grow in tight clumps or tufts, rather than sending out runners or stolons to spread horizontally. This characteristic can make it challenging for chewings fescue to fill in gaps and bare patches in the lawn.
If you are looking for a grass variety that spreads quickly and fills in bare areas more efficiently, there are other options available. For example, Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass are known for their spreading capabilities and ability to recover quickly.
However, it’s important to note that the slower spreading nature of chewings fescue also has its advantages. As a bunch grass, it tends to have a more compact and dense growth habit, which can be desirable in certain landscaping situations. It can create a neat and tidy appearance, especially when used in formal gardens or as an accent grass in ornamental beds.
To summarize, chewings fescue is a grass variety that grows more as a bunch grass than a spreader. This can result in slower filling of bare areas and longer recovery time from wear and tear. However, its compact growth habit can be advantageous in certain landscaping scenarios. If you’re looking for a grass that spreads quickly and fills in bare areas faster, other varieties like Kentucky bluegrass or perennial ryegrass may be more suitable.
