The root system of pampas grass, called the clump, becomes very large and sprawling over the years. The plant often begins to go bald in the middle. By dividing the roots, pampas grass can be kept under control and rejuvenated. At the same time you can propagate new perennials for the garden.
How to divide and propagate pampas grass?
To divide pampas grass, dig up part or all of the root ball in spring, cut or saw off sections and then replant them in desired locations. This will rejuvenate the perennial and give you new plants.
Propagate pampas grass by dividing
Pampas grass can also be propagated through sowing and good care, but this method is not particularly ideal. For one thing, you don't know what properties the new plants will have, especially if you collected the seeds yourself. On the other hand, growing from pampas grass seeds is lengthy and complex.
It is easier to dig up all or part of the pampas grass in the spring, cut off pieces of the roots and reinsert them in the desired location.
Rejuvenate large perennials by dividing them
The older the pampas grass gets, the larger the clump becomes. To prevent the ornamental grass from spreading too much, you should reduce the size of the clump from time to time by dividing it.
With old perennials, the new growth in the middle becomes weaker and weaker. You can rejuvenate such plants by digging them up and cutting out the middle with a spade (€48.00 on Amazon), hatchet or saw.
The remaining root pieces are divided and replanted in pots, as privacy screens or as individual plants.
The best time to divide pampas grass
Most experts recommend pulling pampas grass out of the ground in spring and dividing it. Then the perennial has enough time to prepare for the cold season.
You can still divide the ornamental grass in the fall. Then you have to ensure good winter protection so that the perennial does not freeze to death in sub-zero temperatures.
How to Divide a Pampas Grass Plant
- Dig up the root completely or partially
- cut in the middle with the spade
- for large clumps, cut off or saw off pieces
If the pampas grass is to be propagated by dividing it, divide it into individual pieces at least the size of a man's fist. At least two eyes must remain on each section so that the ornamental grass can sprout again.
Tip
If you want to permanently remove the pampas grass from the garden, divide the root ball into individual pieces. This makes it easier to get the ornamental grass out of the ground.