caring for ornamental grasses
Some gardeners say that ornamental grasses are too much work to maintain; others claim they are carefree. But the gentle sway of ornamental grasses are perfect for any garden.
USING ORNAMENTAL GRASSES IN THE GARDEN | GRASSES TO USE AS A SCREEN
CARING FOR GRASSES
The care for grasses is relatively simple. It's really just a matter of feeding, watering, and clipping. Here's what you can do to grasses to keep them in tip-top shape year-round.
Early Spring
- Before new growth emerges, cut down the stalks and seed heads from the previous season. This is the most labor intensive part of growing grasses. During winter, snip the occasional stem on the big grasses that pitches over in a windstorm, to keep the garden looking tidy. Recycle the canes of miscanthus and other tall grass as stakes in your garden. You can also build a trellis for clematis, using miscanthus canes for supports, which can last up to 6 years.
Spring
- As new growth emerges, fertilize plants with a basic fertilizer.
Spring-Summer-Fall
- Water plants whenever weekly rainfall is less than an inch. Grasses are relatively drought-resistant, so they are not water gobblers. A drip irrigation system will make watering a hands-free chore.
Fall
- As seedheads mature on grasses, allow them to remain in place through winter. They will add interest to the winter garden. Gather any seedheads that you want to use in dried flower arrangements before frost.
Tags
Ornamental Grasses, Grasses
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