Ornamental grasses bring elegance, movement and beauty to any garden, whether used as a screen or an accent. They’re adaptable, tough plants that tolerate a wide range of soil types and growing conditions. To give your ornamental grasses the best start possible, just follow these easy steps shown in the pictures and described in their captions. Then prune them back to their growth points annually to enjoy their graceful beauty year after year, and divide them when they become too large.
Planting Ornamental Grass
Planting Ornamental Grass - Step 1
Mark each planting point based on your garden plan and the spacing requirements as indicated on the plant tag. Prepare your planting area, then dig holes as deep as the containers and slightly wider.
Photo Credit: ©2001 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Planting Ornamental Grass - Step 2
Remove the plant from the nursery container. Set the plant in the hole so that its root crown is level with the surrounding soil surface and matches the soil level of the container. Add or remove soil as necessary to create proper depth.
Photo Credit: ©2001 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Planting Ornamental Grass - Step 3
Fill the hole, using your hands to gently pat the soil down around the crown. Water deeply and thoroughly once you’ve planted, and keep the soil moist until the plant is established. Water thereafter whenever the soil becomes dry.
Photo Credit: ©2001 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Planting Ornamental Grass - Step 4
In late winter or early spring, use hedge clippers to trim delicate grasses; use hedge shears for species with woody stems. Trim old grass foliage 2 inches above any new growth from the crown.
Photo Credit: ©2001 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
