Question
QUESTION: I live in Central NJ and just purchased two great specimens of blue dune grass. I have a very manicured natural pool area with rocks and a waterfall which I want to place them on the sides. I find out now this grass is an invasive runner...........Can I control this grass with a little plucking now and then or am I going to have this stuff shooting up all over from under the red rock I have all around. I love the look.......but the running scares me. Please.....any help would be appreciated.

ANSWER: Hi Keith,
Thanx for your question.  I would not risk putting this plant in a well-manicured area.  It will eventually defeat you.  Put it in a place where you frequently mow and keep it in check with a lawnmower and a little Roundup (if needed).  I hope this helps.
Tom

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks Tom, but I want to clarify. The area directly around my pool is complete 3/4 red stone, no grass at all. Everything is planted in this stone and spread about three feet from each other. I already planted the blue dune. Does this change your answer??  Someone who has them told mne that for the first two years they were in check.The third year they started some shoots spreading but they were easily plucked out. I am very on top of this pool area. I want to try it and the worst thing is I rip it out if it gets crazy. Also I just bought a two gallon Gracillimus and it looks like a little sprout?????  Will it get bigger by June????  Thanks

Answer
Hi Keith,
Thanx for the additional information.  If you are really keen on trying this plant and you are already aware of its issues and you are diligent, I say why not try it?  I've taken risks too.  I mean, it doesn't sound like it's going to be that big of a deal to you if it doesn't work.  I admire someone who wants to go ahead and do something unconventional.  That's how people come up with some really cool garden designs.  Good luck with it!  Also, the gracimillus will take off once it gets warmer.  Just keep it well watered and give it some high nitrogen fertilizer every 2 weeks and you should be fine.  It won't be at its potential this year but it should look nice by mid-summer.  I hope this helps.
Tom