Planting Zebra Grass (Miscanthus) to Hide a Fence: Spacing and Care

Quick Specs

• Height: 4–7 feet
• Spread: 3–5 feet
• Zone: 4–9
• Growth: Fast, clump-forming

Spacing for a Solid Screen

• From fence: 3 feet minimum (allows air flow, maintenance access).
• Between plants: 3 feet on center (they’ll knit together in 2–3 years).
• Staggered double row: Best for quick density—plant two rows 3 ft apart, offset.

Planting Tips

1. Amend clay with compost + grit for drainage.
2. Water weekly first season; then only in drought.
3. Full sun = best form and plume color.

Critical Annual Maintenance

Cut to 6 inches in late fall (after dormancy/yellowing).
Reasons:

• Removes dead foliage (fire hazard, pest harbor).
• Stimulates fresh, vigorous spring growth.
• Prevents center die-out (common in old clumps).

Pro Tip

Leave plumes standing through winter for interest—cut in March before new shoots emerge.

Three feet spacing gives a solid screen by year 3. Patience pays with this grass.