The timing of fertilizer applications must be considered. For seed production, late summer or early fall are best for the P and K applications. A winter application of 70 to 100 pounds for seed production may surprise most fescue farmers. Fescue seed production is comparable to other grain production and fertility must be managed accordingly. Another important practice for maximizing the number of seeds produced is clipping the fescue stubble to 3 to 4 inches right after seed harvest or seed maturity.
Clipping allows the sun to penetrate to the crowns, stimulating tillering.
The more tillers produced, the more seed heads. Removing the residue may increase light penetration. This residue is not a very high quality forage but could be improved by ammoniation. Leaving the fescue unclipped could reduce seed production as much as 30 percent. Grazing in August, September and October should not be too heavy, but should be increased in November so all growth is removed by January 15.