Fescue grass can indeed choke out Bermuda grass over time due to its characteristics and growth patterns. Fescue is known for its dense growth and ability to establish a strong root system. As the fescue shoots become healthier and thicker, they can outcompete Bermuda grass for vital resources such as light and water.
One key factor that contributes to fescue’s ability to choke out Bermuda grass is its shade tolerance. Fescue is a cool-season grass that thrives in partially shaded areas, whereas Bermuda grass is a warm-season grass that requires full sun for optimal growth. As the fescue grass thickens and spreads, it can create a canopy that shades out the Bermuda grass underneath, depriving it of the necessary sunlight for photosynthesis.
In addition to shade tolerance, fescue also has a fibrous root system that helps it compete with Bermuda grass. The fescue roots spread and intertwine, forming a dense network that can effectively absorb water and nutrients from the soil. This allows fescue to establish a strong foothold and outcompete Bermuda grass for these essential resources.
Another factor that contributes to fescue’s choking effect on Bermuda grass is its growth habit. Fescue grass tends to grow in clumps or bunches, which allows it to fill in bare spots and quickly expand its coverage area. As the fescue bunches grow and spread, they can overtake the weaker Bermuda grass, gradually choking it out and replacing it with fescue.
Personal experience: In my own lawn, I have witnessed the choking effect of fescue on Bermuda grass. Initially, my lawn had a mix of both fescue and Bermuda grass. Over time, I noticed that the fescue was gradually taking over and suppressing the Bermuda grass. The fescue grass became thicker and healthier, creating a dense carpet that shaded out the Bermuda grass below. Eventually, the Bermuda grass struggled to survive and was largely replaced by the fescue.
To summarize, fescue grass has the ability to choke out Bermuda grass due to its shade tolerance, fibrous root system, and growth habit. As the fescue becomes healthier and thicker, it can outcompete Bermuda grass for vital resources like light and water. Over time, the fescue grass will gradually suppress and replace the Bermuda grass, leading to a predominance of fescue in the lawn.