Forage Fescues in the Northern USA

Tall fescue, meadow fescue and festulolium have potential value as forages for grazing operations in the northern USA. Meadow fescue is the most cold tolerant of these grasses, with excellent forage quality and palatability, and relatively high drought tolerance. Tall fescue has the highest yield potential, good palatability for soft-leaf varieties and excellent heat and drought tolerance. Festulolium exhibits high forage quality and good summer production. This publication focuses on the use and culture of meadow fescue, tall fescue and festulolium, with additional information on their history and introduction to North America.