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Old Cobblers Farm™ Blue Mesa Sheeps Fescue
$100.00
Blue Mesa Sheep’s Fescue
Seed Type & Composition
Type: Fine-leaf, cool-season fescue (Festuca ovina)
Key Features:
Vibrant blue-green color with fine, wispy blades
Drought-tolerant with deep root system
Thrives in poor, rocky, or low-fertility soils
Minimal watering and fertilization once established
Dense growth suppresses weeds naturally
Ideal for naturalized areas, eco-lawns, erosion control
Typical Seed Label Components
| Attribute | Target Value |
|---|---|
| Purity | 90%+ |
| Germination Rate | 85%+ |
| Weed Seed | < 0.5% |
| Other Crop Seed | < 1% |
| Inert Matter | < 2% |
| Lot Number & Test Date | Provided on label |
| Origin | Disclosed on packaging |
Geographic & USDA Zone Suitability
| Region | Suitability |
|---|---|
| Northern US & Canada | Excellent |
| Pacific Northwest | Ideal (shade & moisture) |
| Northeast US | Strong performance |
| USDA Zones | 3 – 7 |
Sunlight & Soil Requirements
Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Types: Adapts to clay, loam, and rocky soils
pH Range: 5.5 – 7.5
Drainage: Prefers well-drained soils
Watering & Drought Tolerance
Establishment Phase: Frequent light watering until germinated (7–14 days)
Post-Establishment: Deep, infrequent watering — thrives with minimal irrigation
Drought Tolerance: High — deep root system allows prolonged dry periods
Germination & Growth Pattern
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Germination Time | 7–14 days |
| Growth Habit | Bunch-type (clump-forming) |
| Mature Height | 12–18 inches (can be mowed lower) |
| Spread | Slow; no rhizomes or stolons |
Seeding & Overseeding Rates
| Application | Rate per 1,000 SQFT |
|---|---|
| New Lawn | 3–5 lbs |
| Overseeding | 2–3 lbs |
Best Planting Time: Early fall or spring
Sowing Depth: Surface to ¼ inch with light raking
Watering: Keep consistently moist until establishment
Packaging & Storage
Packaging: Moisture-resistant bags (1, 5, 10, 50 lbs)
Storage Life: 1–2 years if kept dry & cool (50–60°F)
Labeling Includes: Variety, lot #, germination %, weight
Environmental & Sustainability Notes
Reduces chemical inputs (fertilizer, herbicide)
Conserves water — ideal for xeriscaping
Stabilizes soil and prevents erosion
Supports local biodiversity (pollinators & beneficial insects)
Sequesters carbon through dense root systems
Pest, Disease & Weed Resistance
Naturally suppresses weeds with dense growth
Generally resistant to pests and diseases
Minimal chemical control required with proper lawn care
Appearance
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Color | Distinct blue-green hue |
| Texture | Fine, soft, needle-like blades |
| Growth Form | Tufted, naturalized look |
Buying Tips
Coated vs. Uncoated:
Coated for challenging conditions (improved germination)
Uncoated if planting in ideal soil
Supplier Check: Choose reputable vendors with verified germ rates
Climate Match: Best for cool-season areas with poor or drought-prone soils
Seed Quantity: Calculate coverage area accurately to avoid under/over-seeding
Seeding, Overseeding & Installation Guide
Seeding
Prepare site — clear debris, loosen soil, adjust pH if needed
Spread 3–5 lbs per 1,000 SQFT with a broadcast spreader
Lightly rake or roll to ensure seed-to-soil contact
Water daily until germination
Overseeding
Mow existing turf low (1–1.5 inches)
Aerate if needed
Spread 2–3 lbs per 1,000 SQFT
Water consistently until establishment
Maintenance
Minimal mowing — maintain at 3–4 inches if desired
Fertilize sparingly, if at all
Deep water occasionally — thrives on neglect once established
Blending & Companion Planting Advice
Mix with Clover (e.g., White Clover):
Provides natural nitrogen
Recommended ratio: 80% fescue / 20% clover by seed weight
Mowing Practices: Set height to accommodate both species (3–4 inches)
Shared Watering & Fertility Needs: Compatible low-maintenance partnership
Best Uses: Naturalized lawns, eco-turf blends, erosion control
Quantity