The drought tolerance of tall fescue is generally attributed to its

• A. Deep root system.
• B. Shallow root system.
• C. High leaf area.
• D. Rapid growth.

Answer: (A)

Drought tolerance in tall fescue is driven by its deep root system. A deep and extensive root network reaches water from deeper in the soil profile, helping the plant stay hydrated and maintain cell functions during dry periods. This trait allows taller fescue to access moisture when surface soil dries out, which is the key to surviving drought conditions. In contrast, a shallow root system would struggle to reach deeper moisture, making the plant more vulnerable to drought. High leaf area increases water loss through transpiration, and rapid growth demands more water, neither of which improves access to water under drought. So the deep root system best explains tall fescue’s drought tolerance.