Irrigate only enough to avoid droughty soil conditions in shady locations during summer months. When moisture is needed, water infrequently and deeply. Avoid frequent irrigation that will lead to increased humidity and disease. Irrigate in the early morning to allow maximum time for drying. Above all, do not overwater turf in shade.
Dry conditions are always preferable to wet conditions for fescues growing in shade.
Core aerify compacted areas that receive heavy traffic. Avoid using herbicides in shady areas if weed problems do not exist. Many weeds, especially crabgrass, will not grow in shade. In Missouri, the hard, sheep, and Chewing's fescues are usually preferred over the other fine fescues when using a monoculture in shady locations. Turf-type tall fescues may also provide an acceptable turf in moderate shade caused by trees.