Many gardeners value pampas grass because it shoots up so quickly, forms a dense privacy screen and produces decorative flowers. In smaller gardens, size can become a problem as the ornamental grass narrows paths and poses a danger with its razor-sharp leaves. But you can easily reduce the size of pampas grass by cutting it off.
How to shrink pampas grass by deadheading?
To reduce the size of pampas grass by cutting it off, expose part of the root system (cluster) and either cut right into the middle or separate individual root pieces from the edge. This can be done in spring or autumn, although good winter protection is required in autumn.
Reduce the size of pampas grass by cutting it off
Pampas grass grows from a clump, as the root system is called. The young shoots appear on the inside and push the old shoots to the edge. Over time, the eyrie becomes larger and larger.
If the plant has become too large, reduce the size of the clump by cutting off parts or dividing it in the middle.
The best time to cut off
Opinions differ when it comes to the best time to cut pampas grass. Some gardeners do this work in the spring, others get to work in the fall.
If you divide the perennial in the fall, you must ensure good winter protection.
Pampas grass in the bucket
Pampas grass in the pot also gets bigger over time. If you don't want to keep buying new pots, cut the pampas grass in spring. Then you have to repot the perennial frequently anyway.
How to cut pampas grass
Expose part of the clump or dig up the root as much as possible. Using a sharp spade (€49.00 on Amazon), either pierce right into the middle or separate individual root pieces from the edge.
If you would like to use the root parts obtained by cutting off for propagation, you should:
- be at least the size of a man’s fist
- have at least two eyes
- don't be lazy
If you don't plan to propagate the pampas grass, you can also use a saw or a hatchet to reduce the size of the root ball. Just make sure that you don't damage any new shoots in the middle, because then the ornamental grass will no longer bloom.
Tip
You don't necessarily have to completely dig up the clump of a very large pampas grass if you want to cut off parts of it. Divide it by inserting a long spade into the side or middle as deep as possible. Then you just have to take the section out of the ground.
