Unfortunately, tall fescue also has a downside. Most tall fescue in the state is infected with a fungal endophyte, Neotyphodium coenophialum (formerly called Acremonium coenophialum) that is toxic to animals.
Fescue. Fescue is often the preferred lawn grass of homeowners with large dogs. Because of its highly absorbent nature, Fescue does a superior job of handling the elimination needs of large dogs, which also makes it an excellent choice for households with multiple dogs.
The ergot alkaloid ergovaline has been detected in toxic fescue and constitutes ~90% of the ergopeptide alkaloids produced. Ergovaline content of infected tall fescue often ranges from 100 to 500 ppb, and >200 ppb is considered a toxic concentration.
While most ornamental grasses are dog-friendly there are a couple of exceptions. While non-toxic the fluffy seed heads of pampas grass can severely irritate dogs' throats and digestive systems. Grass palm or Cordyline australis however does contain saponins and can be extremely harmful if eaten.
As a cool-season grass, it offers a reliable source of forage year-round and even stays green into the winter in many areas. However, its resilience comes with a significant downside—it's often low in nutritional quality and can pose serious health risks to cattle due to its toxic properties.
Tall Fescue lawns can be prone to pest infestations that can hinder their growth, and cause your lawn to turn brown. Tall fescue is particularly vulnerable to Army Worms, Cutworms and White Grubs. Army Worms are the larvae of the Army Worm moth (Spodoptera mauritia).
🌿 Blue Fescue is non-toxic, making it safe for homes with dogs. 🐶 Monitor your dog's behavior around plants to detect any issues early. 🌱 Drought-resistant and low-maintenance, Blue Fescue suits busy dog owners perfectly.
Foxtail plants are a weed-type grass that can cause serious problems for dogs. Flourishing in the summer months, the seeds from these annoying weeds are designed to burrow into the ground. If they attach to your pet's coat and burrow into the skin, this can lead to pain, infection, and sometimes more serious issues.
Sago Palm: Often used as an ornamental shrub in temperate zones, it's considered one of the most toxic plants for dogs. Every part of the plant is toxic, especially the seeds. Ingesting just a few seedpods can result in acute liver failure.
Fescue is versatile and often the best choice. This grass variety is very absorbent and can easily handle a large dog's urine. Many fescue varieties are straightforward to care for, do not require much attention or nutrients to thrive, and can tolerate shade and drought.
The most readily apparent signs of fescue toxicosis include reduced feed intake, weight gain, milk production and reproductive efficiency, as well as tissue necrosis and a rough hair coat.
The most effective time to apply herbicides to control tall fescue is in the fall before the first frost. Spray the weedy patches as well as a few inches beyond these areas to ensure their complete destruction. A second application is necessary if the treated areas are not dead in 2 to 4 weeks.
Tall fescue is valued for its adaptability to a wide range of climates and its tolerances for cold, heat, drought and shade. In its preferred growing zones, tall fescue provides lawn owners with outstanding options for improving lawn resilience and durability.
Grass allergies are caused by common grass pollens from grasses such as Bermuda, fescue, alfalfa, or rye. They have similar symptoms to allergies caused by pollens from trees (cedar, pine, oak) and weeds (ragweed, pigweed). Dogs that enjoy rolling in the grass can get symptoms from direct contact.
In addition to cool-climate use, TT tall fescues excel in the transition zone where many other lawn grasses struggle. In this difficult grass growing zone — too hot for traditional cool-season grasses and too cold for many warm-season lawn grasses — versatile TT tall fescues deliver.
Plant strong-smelling herbs like sage and rosemary throughout your garden area to keep kitty far away. Coffee grounds scattered throughout the garden will have a similar effect. Spicy substances work to keep dogs at bay. Spread a mixture of spicy mustard and red pepper flakes around plants for protection.
Toxicity to pets
Hostas contain saponins, bitter tasting phytochemicals that lead to gastrointestinal distress following ingestion. Vomiting and diarrhea are common clinical signs, but lethargy and anorexia may also occur. Veterinary treatment is not necessary for pets with mild signs that resolve rapidly.
Perennial Ryegrass
Like the tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass, it is perfect for active dogs and areas with high traffic.
In fact, foxtails are reported to thrive in all but 7 states in the U.S.: Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. In western states like California, they can exist all year long.
The 2 biggest differences that you can see: 1) Bluegrass has a smooth boat shaped tip on the grass blade and Fescue has rough pointed tip on the grass blade. 2) If you pull the leaf off the stem of the grass you will see one of 2 shapes a triangular or round shape on the leaf.
Kentucky bluegrass is a first-rate turfgrass with a high tolerance for foot traffic. It recovers quickly from injury, so active kids and pets won't be a problem.
🔍 Identifying What is Eating Your Blue Fescue. 🌾 Blue fescue attracts herbivores like deer and rabbits, impacting its growth and health. 🦌 Effective deterrents include fencing and repellents to protect your blue fescue.