Kentucky 31 Tall Fescue Grass Seed | Raw
Durable, Economical Cool-Season Grass for Lawns, Acreage, and Utility Turf
Kentucky 31 Tall Fescue Grass Seed, commonly known as K-31, is one of the most widely recognized and time-tested cool-season grass varieties in North America. Originally introduced from Europe and cultivated throughout the United States for generations, Kentucky 31 remains a popular choice for homeowners, property managers, and landowners seeking a dependable, affordable turfgrass with proven performance.
Known for its adaptability and rugged nature, Kentucky 31 develops a durable turf capable of withstanding drought, foot traffic, and challenging growing conditions. While newer turf-type tall fescues offer a finer appearance, Kentucky 31 continues to be valued for its quick establishment, excellent stress tolerance, and economical cost.
Its extensive root system helps support strong drought resistance, making it an excellent option for large lawns, utility areas, parks, roadsides, and other locations where durability and ease of maintenance are priorities.
Key Features & Benefits
| Feature |
Benefit |
| Proven Variety |
Trusted and widely planted for decades throughout North America |
| Drought Tolerance |
Deep root system helps maintain performance during dry periods |
| Heat Resistance |
Performs well in warmer climates compared to many cool-season grasses |
| Traffic Tolerance |
Handles moderate to heavy foot traffic and recreational use |
| Rapid Establishment |
Germinates quickly and develops into a durable turf stand |
| Disease Resistance |
Demonstrates strong natural resilience to many common turf diseases |
| Adaptable Growth Habit |
Performs in full sun and moderate shade conditions |
| Cost-Effective Choice |
Excellent option for large lawn and property applications |
Turf Characteristics
Kentucky 31 produces a medium- to dark-green lawn with a slightly coarser texture than modern turf-type tall fescue varieties. Its upright growth habit and durable nature make it particularly useful for residential lawns, rural properties, utility turf, and erosion-prone areas where performance is more important than a highly manicured appearance.
| Characteristic |
Rating |
| Grass Type |
Cool-Season Tall Fescue |
| Color |
Medium to Dark Green |
| Texture |
Moderately Coarse |
| Drought Tolerance |
Excellent |
| Heat Tolerance |
Very Good |
| Wear Tolerance |
Good |
| Disease Resistance |
Good to Excellent |
| Shade Tolerance |
Moderate |
| Sun Tolerance |
Excellent |
Planting Information
| Specification |
Recommendation |
| Sunlight Requirement |
Full Sun to Moderate Shade |
| Daily Sun Exposure |
4–8 Hours |
| Recommended Planting Seasons |
Early Spring or Early Fall |
| Seeding Depth |
1/8 Inch |
| Germination Time |
7–21 Days |
| Mowing Height |
3–4 Inches |
Seeding Rates
| Application |
Rate per 1,000 sq. ft. |
Rate per Acre |
| New Lawn Establishment |
8 lbs. |
348 lbs. |
| Overseeding Existing Turf |
4 lbs. |
174 lbs. |
Ideal Uses
-
Residential lawns
-
Large acreage turf areas
-
Rural properties
-
Parks and recreation fields
-
Roadsides and utility turf
-
Erosion control projects
-
Low-maintenance landscapes
Why Choose Kentucky 31 Tall Fescue?
Kentucky 31 continues to be a practical solution for property owners seeking dependable turf performance without the higher cost associated with many premium turfgrass varieties. Its combination of drought tolerance, wear resistance, heat adaptability, and fast establishment has made it a trusted choice for generations. Whether you're establishing a new lawn or improving existing turf, Kentucky 31 provides reliable coverage and long-lasting durability across a wide range of growing conditions.
