Alta fescue is a type of grass commonly grown for forage and pasture. The spelling of the word is pronounced /ˈæltə ˈfɛskjuː/ according to the International Phonetic Alphabet. The first syllable "al" is pronounced like the word "al" in "pal". The second syllable "ta" is pronounced like the word "tah" in "taco". The third syllable "fes" is pronounced like the word "fess" and the fourth syllable "cue" is pronounced like the word "queue".
Alta fescue is a type of cool-season grass that is commonly found in the southern regions of the United States. It belongs to the fescue grass family, which is known for its adaptability and ability to tolerate various growing conditions.
Alta fescue is typically characterized by its fine texture, dark green color, and dense growth habit. It is a perennial grass that forms tufts or clumps, growing to a height of 12-24 inches. It has a shallow root system, allowing it to establish quickly and effectively, making it suitable for erosion control and stabilizing slopes.
One of the most notable features of alta fescue is its tolerance to drought and heat, making it an ideal choice for regions that experience hot and dry summers. Additionally, it has good shade tolerance, which enables it to thrive in areas with partial shade.
Another key characteristic of alta fescue is its ability to withstand heavy foot traffic, making it suitable for use in high-traffic areas such as parks, sports fields, and golf courses. It has a high wear tolerance and can recover well from damage caused by frequent use or play.
In terms of maintenance, alta fescue requires regular mowing, fertilization, and irrigation to maintain its optimal growth and appearance. It has moderate to high nutrient requirements but is relatively resistant to diseases and pests.
Alta fescue offers a versatile and attractive option for landscaping projects, providing a lush and durable grass cover that thrives in a variety of environmental conditions.
The word "alta fescue" is a combination of two terms - "alta" and "fescue".
"Alta" is derived from the Spanish word "alta", which means "high or tall". This term is used to describe the tall and upright growth habit of the fescue grass species.
"Fescue" is derived from the Middle English word "festue", which originated from the Old French word "festu" meaning "straw or stalk". This is a reference to the fine and slender leaves of the fescue grass.
So, "alta fescue" essentially refers to a tall and upright species of the fescue grass, known for its slender leaves.