How to Grow Ornamental Grasses: Simple Division Techniques

Ornamental grasses have surged in popularity, but nursery prices can be steep. Fortunately, propagation through division is remarkably easy and cost-effective—far simpler than growing from seed.

Getting Started

Purchase at least one parent plant per desired variety. Four-inch pots offer affordable starting points. Spring, just before new growth emerges, is the ideal division time. If purchased in early spring, divide immediately; otherwise, plant temporarily and divide the following spring.

Division Process

Dig up the entire root mass and separate into pieces. Divisions need only some roots to succeed—size isn't critical. Young plants often separate by hand, but established clumps require tools: a sharp spade, or for extremely dense roots, a hammer and mason's chisel.

Professional Insight

Commercial growers prevent oversized clumps by planting small divisions in spring, then digging and dividing again the following spring. Twelve-month-old plants separate easily by hand, avoiding the struggle of dividing massive, established root masses.

Recommended Approach

Adopt the commercial method: plant divisions in spring, divide annually. This maintains manageable plants, increases stock rapidly, and eliminates the backbreaking work of dividing neglected, oversized clumps.

With minimal effort and an annual routine, you'll produce abundant ornamental grasses for your landscape or to share.