How to Grow Ornamental Grass

How to Grow Ornamental Grass

Annuals and Perennials

These aren't lawn grasses—you won't mow them. Ornamental grasses are decorative, adding depth and texture to highlight rock gardens, mixed amidst shrubs, and used in container gardens.

Common varieties include:
• Pampas Grass
• Hare's Tail (Bunny's Tail)
• Festuca Glauca Blue
• Fountain Grass

Many annual and perennial varieties exist—there's one for every landscape theme. Heights range from 1 foot to several feet. Attractive leaves often highlighted with striking, colorful flower heads.

Some varieties dry well for indoor decorations.

Plant Height: 12″ – 16′ depending on variety

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Plant Propagation

Ornamental grasses grow from seed. Direct-sow into the garden or start indoors for transplanting.

If planting outdoors, sow after soil warms in spring. Sow early, cover lightly with soil. Spacing varies by variety—check seed packet.

For indoor starts, grow in flats 4–6 weeks before setting out.

Days to Germination: 10–21 depending on variety

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How to Grow Ornamental Grass

Very easy to grow. Prefer full sun. Soil and moisture needs vary by variety. Generally, moist, well-fertilized soil promotes healthiest plants. Fertilize when you fertilize your lawn; same with water.

Once established, they grow until frost. Annuals need replanting yearly; sometimes seed drop reseeds.

Harvest stalks and flower heads in fall for indoor decorating. Hang upside down to dry in a cool, ventilated area out of direct sun.

Note: Perennial varieties can be invasive. Without borders, they spread to lawns.

Flowers Bloom: Summer

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Insect and Disease

Ornamental grasses can experience molds/fungus like lawn grasses, especially in wet weather and when overcrowded. Insect problems are infrequent.

If problems occur, treat early with organic/chemical repellents and fungicide.

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