Blue fescue (Festuca glauca)

Photo: Opioła Jerzy (Poland), CC BY 2.5 · source

Pruning guide · Ornamental grass

Blue fescue: when and how to prune

Festuca glauca

Blue fescue is best pruned in March and August.

Key facts
Pruning monthsMarch and August
FloweringJune–July
Native to BelgiumNo, planted

Blue fescue: when to prune it?

In March comb the dead leaves out of the tuft. After flowering, in August, you can cut off the spent flower spikes.

What else to prune in those months? March · August

Blue fescue: how to prune it?

  1. Pull the dead, brown leaves out with your fingers or a small rake; gloves are handy.
  2. Do not cut the tuft right down: combing suits this evergreen grass better.
  3. After flowering, cut the spikes off at the base if you want a neat tuft.

How much to cut, and how often?

  • There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and August. You don’t have to prune in every one.

What does it mean for wildlife?

  • Don’t cut more than you need to: what stays standing gives insects and birds food and shelter.

Nearby: related pruning guides

Plant profile: Blue fescue · Pruning calendar and basic rules

This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.

Laden…