Should I cut off the brown tips?

You can trim them if you prefer, but it is not strictly necessary for the health of the grass. Ensure your mower blades are sharp to avoid tearing the grass.

Will the brown tips turn green again?

No, the brown parts are dead tissue and will not turn green. New growth will emerge from the base as long as the plant is healthy.

Red fescue: brown tips, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture with a probe or your finger.
Inspect your irrigation system for clogged nozzles.
Measure the amount of water your lawn receives each week.

Likely causes

Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels dry and crumbly several inches down, and the grass looks dull or grayish.
What to do: Increase your watering to 1 to 2 times per week. Make sure to soak the soil deeply to reach the root zone, rather than just sprinkling the surface.
Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: Brown tips appear during peak summer heat even if you are watering regularly.
What to do: Apply a light layer of mulch or compost to help retain soil moisture. Avoid mowing during the hottest part of the day to reduce stress on the blades.

Brown tips on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your red fescue

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

It is normal for some browning during extreme summer heat, but if the entire lawn turns brown, the grass may be entering dormancy or dying.

Stopping it coming back

Water deeply and consistently to encourage deep roots that can better withstand dry periods.

Red fescue: brown tips? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your red fescue and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Should I cut off the brown tips?: You can trim them if you prefer, but it is not strictly necessary for the health of the grass. Ensure your mower blades are sharp to avoid tearing the grass.
Will the brown tips turn green again?: No, the brown parts are dead tissue and will not turn green. New growth will emerge from the base as long as the plant is healthy.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my Red fescue grass tips turning brown?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your red fescue?