The conditions seem fabulous. But for some reason, the stalks and leaves of the Miscanthus gradually dry up. What could be the reasons behind this? What can you do to make the leaves green again?
Why did my Miscanthus dry up?
When Miscanthus dries out, it can be caused by natural life cycle, waterlogging, pest infestation, nutrient deficiency or drought and heat. It is important to identify the cause and take appropriate measures such as pruning, transplanting, pest control or fertilization.
When is it safe for miscanthus to dry out?
In most cases, the drying out of miscanthus is harmless, as it is based on thenatural life cycle of this sweet grass. Miscanthus, also known as Miscanthus sinensis, does not like cool temperatures and withdraws its above-ground strength and juices into the ground over the winter. This causes the stalks, flowers and leaves to dry out. This usually happens from the end of September/beginning of October.
What should you do if the miscanthus has dried up?
Thedried plant partscan becut off in the fall or should be cut off in the spring between February and March at the latest. Only then will new growth in April/May work without any problems.
Ideally leave the dried stalks standing over the winter. This prevents water from finding its way through the cut stalks and causing water to accumulate in the root area.
In spring, the root ball can be dug up and divided if necessary. Potted plants should be repotted into a new substrate after overwintering.
Does drought cause miscanthus to dry out?
It isless the drynessthat can lead to the miscanthus drying out. Much more damage is done to this reedWetness When there is waterlogging, the tips of the shoots dry up and from the outside it appears as if the miscanthus is suffering from too little water. In such a case, check the moisture content of the soil.
Can pests cause miscanthus to dry out?
Pests canwithin a few weekscausethe miscanthus to dry up. They usually sit on the underside of the leaves or on the stalks in the shade because they feel undetected there. They suck out the nutrients from the miscanthus and the parts of the plant then dry out. The risk of pest infestation is high, especially in hot and dry summers. Therefore, examine your plant and look for possible spider mites or aphids.
What other factors cause miscanthus to dry out?
Tofew nutrientsin the soil (this happens quickly with plants in pots) can also lead to the parts of the miscanthus plant drying out. Therefore, you should fertilize it once or twice a year from the second year onwards. Miscanthus in a pot needs more frequent fertilizer. It is best to use aliquid fertilizerand beeconomical rather than too generous.
Last but not least,droughtcoupled withheat can also lead to drying out of Miscanthus sinensis.
Tip
Dried Miscanthus from its beautiful side
Even when the miscanthus has dried up, it looks great throughout the winter and its long stalks add beautiful accents to the barren winter landscape. When covered with snow, this reed becomes a highlight in winter.
