Whether pampas grass, sedge, pennisetum grass, elephant grass, riding grass or another specimen - ornamental grasses are popular plants for heather, rock and perennial gardens. To keep them growing vigorously for many years, they should be cut regularly. But when?
When is the right time to cut ornamental grass?
Ornamental grasses should preferably be cut in spring between mid-February and mid-April. This time protects the plants from cold, enables self-propagation and provides shelter for insects and birds. Evergreen ornamental grasses do not require pruning; it is sufficient to pluck out old and dead parts.
Prune preferably in spring
Fall is not a good time to cut back ornamental grasses. The main reason why this is not recommended is that moisture can penetrate through the cut stalks, flow downwards and cause rot in the root area. It is better to carry out the pruning in spring between mid-February and (at the latest) mid-April - before the plant sprouts again.
Other advantages of spring pruning for almost all types of ornamental grass are:
- Stalks protect against cold and thus increase winter hardiness
- Plants can sow themselves
- Shelter for insects and birds is guaranteed
Tip
Evergreen ornamental grasses do not need to be cut. It is enough to pluck out old and dead parts.
