Growing Ornamental Grasses at Home

When received: Plant as soon as possible. Keep the pots in a cool, dry location until ready to plant.

When to plant: Cool-season ornamental grasses (such as 'Karl Foerster') can be planted in the spring or fall. Warm-season grasses (such as 'Hameln' and 'Moudry') should be planted only in the spring.

Where to plant: Nearly all ornamental grasses require full sun, or a minimum of 6-8 hours of sun. Ornamental grasses tolerate a wide range of soil conditions but thrive in well-drained soil that is fairly high in organic matter.

How to plant: Spade or till garden soil to a depth of approximately 12". If soil is heavy, incorporate sharp sand and organic matter (peat moss or well rotted compost).

Watering: Water well after planting, and water regularly during the first season to encourage deep, vigorous root growth. Once established, ornamental grasses only require supplemental watering during long dry spells.

Fertilizing: For quick establishment you can apply 1–2 pounds of 5-10-5 or 10-10-10 fertilizer per 100 square feet. This is equivalent to ¼ to ½ cup per plant. Regularly top-dressing with 1–2" of compost is a slower-acting but effective organic alternative that will contribute to long-term soil health. Once the plants are established you can lightly apply fertilizer in the spring, but avoid excessive fertilization as it encourages lush, weak growth. Do not fertilize in the fall.

Pests and Disease: Ornamental grasses are generally pest-free and not susceptible to disease.

Winter protection: Fall-planted grasses benefit during their first winter from a light mulch applied after several hard freezes have occurred. Winter protection is not required after the first year.

General: Grasses may be left standing for visual interest throughout the winter. In late winter or early spring, cut the old growth back to approximately 6–8 inches. Clump-forming grasses should be divided every few years or when the center begins to die out. Divide in late fall or early spring when the plant is dormant.