Troubleshooting
Boulder Blue Fescue problems — and how to fix them
Boulder Blue Fescue (Festuca glauca 'Boulder Blue') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Hollow centre with age
Older tufts die out in the middle. Divide every two to three years and replant the vigorous outer portions to keep the mound full.
Crown rot in wet soil
Waterlogged or poorly drained ground rots the crown. Plant in gritty, sharp-draining soil with full sun and space for airflow.
Colour fade in low light
Shade dulls the silver-blue and loosens the form. Site in the sunniest available position for best colour.
Summer slump
Though heat-tolerant for a fescue, it may still brown in extreme heat; shear lightly and ease off watering until cooler weather returns.
Prevent boulder blue fescue problems before they start
Most boulder blue fescue issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for boulder blue fescue in general rather than its problems? Read the full boulder blue fescue care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Boulder Blue Fescue problems — FAQ
Why is my boulder blue fescue hollow centre with age?
Older tufts die out in the middle. Divide every two to three years and replant the vigorous outer portions to keep the mound full.
Why is my boulder blue fescue crown rot in wet soil?
Waterlogged or poorly drained ground rots the crown. Plant in gritty, sharp-draining soil with full sun and space for airflow.
Why is my boulder blue fescue colour fade in low light?
Shade dulls the silver-blue and loosens the form. Site in the sunniest available position for best colour.
Why is my boulder blue fescue summer slump?
Though heat-tolerant for a fescue, it may still brown in extreme heat; shear lightly and ease off watering until cooler weather returns.