Cool-season checklist
Spring
NC State’s tall fescue calendar recommends mowing around 2.5 to 3.5 inches and applying preemergence herbicides for crabgrass, goosegrass, and foxtail. University of Minnesota warns against fertilizing too early because it can push growth when grass should be slow or dormant.
Summer
Summer is stress season. UMN cautions against hot mid-summer fertilization, and NC State notes tall fescue disease pressure such as brown patch during warm, humid conditions.
Fall
Fall is the core renovation and fertility window for many cool-season lawns. NC State recommends soil testing and gives fall fertilization and overseeding guidance for tall fescue calendars.