Ornamental Grasses

Perennial ornamental grasses are a diverse family of hardy plants. The various different foliage colors, growth habits, mature heights, and ‘flowers’ and ‘plumage’ as well as their adaptability in unfavorable conditions makes them a new favorite as either a dramatic accent or humble filler in the landscape. The larger varieties of Miscanthus, like Porcupine Grass and Japanese Silver Grass that can often reach and exceed 7 foot heights, are as at home with larger shrubs and trees on larger commercial lots as they are on more intimate-scaled home landscapes. Another point in their favor - unlike most other perennials, grasses can provide winter interest with remnants of their flowers and graceful foliage.

Grasses have no specific time they need to be planted. Adequately watered, they will flourish as successfully planted in mid summer as they would in early spring and late fall. As long as the soil in tillable, it is safe to plant grasses. Grasses are as fuss-free as any garden perennial can get. They require little soil preparation for the most part, but be aware that properly conditioned soil rewards the gardener with more dynamic growth. Mulching will also help grasses start off on the right foot by providing cool shade for roots and help conserve much needed water.

As another means to promote more vigorous growth, year after year, we recommend cutting back your ornamental grasses once a year, down to 3-8" depending upon height, preferably in late winter (late February to early March) before new growth emerges. This is not vital to the survival of the plant but annual pruning does promote healthier and more attractive specimens.

Some grasses may require dividing or thinning in later years to keep them looking fresh. Transplanting and uprooting grasses can be a lot of work because their root systems are vigorous. Use a pickaxe, a saw, and/or shovel (whatever it takes!) to dig them up and divide them keeping a good measure of soil with the roots. Cutting grasses back to 1/3 their mature size when transplanting will promote root establishment.