How to Grow Kentucky 31 Classic
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Kentucky 31 Classic
Festuca arundinacea
grassKentucky 31 Classic is a tall fescue grass variety widely used for pastures, hay production, and erosion control. Known for its deep root system, drought tolerance, and ability to thrive in various soil conditions, it's a hardy perennial grass suitable for both cool and warm season climates.
When should you plant Kentucky 31 Classic in your zone?
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Example Kentucky 31 Classic timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Kentucky 31 Classic
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Kentucky 31 Classic
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Kentucky 31 Classic dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 3-9; exceptionally versatile across most of North America
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Germination & Seedling
2-3 weeksSeeds germinate within 7-14 days; first shoots emerge and develop 2-3 leaves. Very tender and vulnerable to drought and traffic.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Avoid foot traffic and livestock grazing. Protect from competing weeds. Provide good light.
Establishment & Root Development
4-8 weeksYoung grass develops deeper root system and tiller formation begins. Plant gains visible vigor and density increases.
Continue regular watering during dry periods. Light nitrogen fertilization (0.5-1 lb N per 1000 sq ft) promotes growth. Begin light grazing only if growth is robust. Mow if height exceeds 4-5 inches to encourage tillering.
Vegetative Growth & Tillering
8-12 weeksExtensive shoot formation occurs, creating dense sward. Root system deepens significantly. Plant becomes more drought and traffic tolerant.
Adjust mowing height based on use (2.5-3.5 inches for pasture, 2-3 inches for hay). Apply maintenance nitrogen fertilizer (0.5-1 lb N per 1000 sq ft per season) in spring and fall. Manage grazing or traffic to prevent overuse.
Flowering & Seed Production
4-6 weeksSeed heads emerge on tall stems, typically in late spring to early summer. Plant reaches maximum height and nutrient content in leaves decreases.
For pasture use, graze or cut before boot stage to maintain forage quality. For seed production, allow full flowering and maturation. Typically occurs 45-60 days after active spring growth begins.
Dormancy & Winter Hardiness
3-6 months (varies by zone)Aboveground growth slows or stops; plant enters dormancy in late fall through early spring depending on region. Crown and roots survive winter.
Avoid excessive fall nitrogen that delays dormancy. Maintain adequate phosphorus and potassium for winter hardiness. Apply dormancy seed treatments if pest pressure warrants. Do not graze dormant grass excessively.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Monitor for damage; use insecticides if threshold exceeded (economic damage levels); promote natural predators; mow infested areas if practical
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Primarily a warm-season pest concern; insecticide application if populations exceed threshold; improve irrigation to reduce stress
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Less common in tall fescue; insecticide application in severe cases; maintain turf vigor through proper management
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Monitor undersides of leaf sheaths; insecticidal soap or oil sprays during dormancy; rarely economically damaging
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Improve air circulation and reduce shade; fungicide application if severe; select resistant varieties; usually self-limiting
Uses
Livestock Forage
CulinaryKentucky 31 is a premier forage grass for cattle, sheep, horses, and other grazing livestock. It provides nutritious pasture and excellent hay when harvested at the proper growth stage. [source]
Pasture & Lawn Cover
HouseholdWidely used for residential lawns, sports fields, and pastures due to its durability, traffic tolerance, and attractive deep green color. Establishes quickly and maintains good density year-round. [source]
Erosion Control & Wildlife Habitat
WildlifeThe deep root system (up to 3-4 feet) provides excellent soil stabilization on slopes and banks. Provides cover and forage for wildlife including deer, elk, and upland game birds. [source]
Seed Production & Plant Breeding
CraftKentucky 31 is commercially grown for seed production and is used as a genetic source for improved tall fescue cultivars. Seed remains viable for several years. [source]
Livestock Nutrition & Health
MedicinalProvides complete forage nutrition with balanced protein, energy, and minerals when managed properly. Supports digestive health and productivity in grazing animals. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
For hay: Cut at boot to early heading stage for optimal nutritional quality (typically May-June in northern zones). For pasture: Graze when grass reaches 3-4 inches; remove livestock when grass is grazed to 2 inches to allow regrowth. For seed: Allow full maturation (late June-July typically) and harvest with combine when seed heads are brown and dry. Nutritional quality decreases after heading, so early cutting maximizes forage quality.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Kentucky 31 was first released by the University of Kentucky in 1931 and became one of the most widely used tall fescue varieties in North America, earning the moniker 'KY-31' or 'K-31' in agricultural circles.
- 🌱 The deep root system of tall fescue can extend 3-4 feet into the soil, making it exceptionally drought-tolerant and allowing it to access water unavailable to shallow-rooted species—a major advantage in dry climates and during extended droughts.
- 🌱 Kentucky 31 contains an endophytic fungus (Neotyphodium coenophialum) that provides natural insect resistance and some drought tolerance; however, certain endophyte strains can produce ergovaline, a toxic alkaloid that causes 'fescue toxicity' in grazing animals, leading to lameness and reduced performance.
Gardening Terms
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