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Ornamental Grasses

The term ornamental grass is used to include not only true grasses (Gramineae) but close relatives such as sedges (Cyperaceae), rushes (Juncaceae), hardy bamboos (particularly the genus Phyllostachys), and others.

Grasses add variety to many types of gardens, including water, Japanese, rock, wildlife, craft, xeriscape, container and others. Ornamental grasses add two elements to the garden experience that are not readily obtained from many other plants: movement and sound. Grasses look well against a dark background and placed to catch morning or evening light.

Grasses add a significant vertical presence to the winter landscape and are commonly left standing until spring. The dried foliage of ornamental grasses is combustible during the winter and is likely best removed in public and commercial sites.

Some grasses grow best under warm temperatures (warm season) and others in cooler temperatures (cool season). Plant ornamental grasses in the spring. Container-grown grasses can be planted all season, stopping a month before first frost. Late planting of grass divisions is not recommended, particularly for warm season types.

Grasses generally grow best with 3 — 5 hours of direct sun. In shade, these grasses may not bloom, are often lax and tend to fall over, and may not develop peak fall color.

Most grasses benefit from mulching and many from cutting back, usually just before new growth begins in the spring. Use hedge shears and wear gloves to prevent cuts from the razor-sharp edges of some species.

A number of perennial grasses form root masses that can be very difficult to divide and transplant. Most annual types can easily be grown from seed.

Few pests bother grasses. If aphids or mites appear, spray with a strong stream of water to control the problem.

Tips for growing ornamental grasses:

Sunny spots: Most grasses prefer sunny areas, especially the more brightly colored varieties.

Watering in new plantings: Drought-resistant grasses still require watering while getting established.

Space appropriately: Allow room between clumps of grass for movement and natural growth. Avoid overcrowding.

Trim: Clump grasses can be cut back each spring to allow for new growth. Grasses which turn brown in winter (deciduous) can be cut back to a few inches off the ground. Evergreen grasses, however, should not be cut back too drastically.

Divide. Clump grasses may need divided if they grow too big or have die-back in the center of the clump. Use a spade to cut larger divisions; divide into smaller sections and replant. Water-in replanted divisions.