Growth and Phenological Development of Rough Fescue in Interior British Columbia

Abstract

Growth and phenological development of rough fescue (Festuca scabrella) in interior British Columbia have been documented for a 3-year period. The plants began growing around mid-April and normally ceased growing in late June. Culm growth began in late May and ceased at approximately the time leaf growth ceased. However, leaf and culm elongation ceased before the plants reached their full weight. Rough fescue headed out between May 14 and June 10 and seed shattering occurred between July 13 and July 24. Seed head production per plant was variable from year to year. Fall regrowth occurred in September one year, in October another year, and not at all the other year.