Can shade tolerant tall fescue grass be planted here - Ask Extension
This is a townhome complex in Locus Point that has walkway spaces between same buildings. There are spaces approximately 8 feet by 40 feet. The area g...
Knowledgebase
Can shade tolerant tall fescue grass be planted here #926558
Asked March 23, 2026, 12:10 PM EDT
This is a townhome complex in Locus Point that has walkway spaces between same buildings. There are spaces approximately 8 feet by 40 feet. The area gets some daily sunlight, but is mostly in shade. Can shade tolerant tall fescue grass (sod) be planted in these areas? The grass would be on one side with paver stones in the middle and small bushes on the other side. Thank you, Carol
Baltimore City County Maryland
Expert Response
Hi Carol,
Shade-tolerant fescue still requires a minimum of 2 hrs. direct sunlight/day to grow. There is a strong possibility you will end up with weeds and moss in the space.
I suggest planting shade tolerant perennials and/or ground covers. Ferns would do well in there. Here's a link to the Extension page on groundcovers: https://extension.umd.edu/resource/groundcovers.
Thanks for contacting us,
Judy
Shade-tolerant fescue still requires a minimum of 2 hrs. direct sunlight/day to grow. There is a strong possibility you will end up with weeds and moss in the space.
I suggest planting shade tolerant perennials and/or ground covers. Ferns would do well in there. Here's a link to the Extension page on groundcovers: https://extension.umd.edu/resource/groundcovers.
Thanks for contacting us,
Judy
