With its delicately fluffy flower spikes, the Pennisetum grass adds playful accents to the landscape. It looks fantastic and seems to be completely easy to care for. But does this also apply to pruning this ornamental grass?
When and how should the Pennisetum be cut back?
The Pennisetum grass should be cut back just above the ground in spring, between mid-March and early April. This promotes new growth, improves the appearance and creates space for fresh growth.
What is the purpose of cutting back the Pennisetum?
So that Pennisetum can sproutunhindered in spring and so that old stalks and feather bristles do not disturb the new shoots (robbing light and air), cutting back is recommended. In addition, it serves a visual purpose, as the new growth looks much more attractive if there are no dried parts of the plant in between.
Does the Pennisetum grass have to be cut back?
It isnotmandatorynecessary to prune the pennisetum. In the wild, it continues to grow happily or sprout new plants even without a cut. In principle, you can skip cutting back.
When is the Pennisetum best cut back?
Cut back your Pennisetum inSpring! It is important that the pruning is carried out before new growth appears. Otherwise, new shoots could be injured. The optimal period is therefore between mid-March and early April.
Pruning in autumn is not recommended. The stalks serve as winter protection for the Pennisetum grass. They protect it from extreme cold and excessive moisture in the root zone. Insects also find shelter to overwinter in its feather bristles.
How do you properly cut the pennisetum?
The old plant parts are cut down toshortabove thesoil. To do this, grab the entire tuft of leaves of the Pennisetum grass with one hand and tie it together if necessary. Using sharp and cleaned secateurs (€14.00 on Amazon) or hedge trimmers, cut off the upper parts to 10 cm above the ground. It is advisable to put on gloves beforehand, otherwise the stalks and leaves with their sharp edges could injure the skin.
What should you do after cutting the pennisetum?
Immediately after cutting back is a good time to fertilize the pennisetum. You can use compost or other fertilizer that is rich in nutrients.
If your Pennisetum grass is in a container plant, it can berepotted if necessary.
If you also feel like propagating this plant, you can alsoDivide the clump immediately after cutting.
Can the clippings of the Pennisetum grass be used?
You can use the clippings of the Pennisetum grass formulchingor fordecorative purposes. The stalks without the flower spikes or seed heads are suitable for mulching. However, the feather bristles are well suited for the vase. At home they add a touch of lightness and sophistication.
Tip
Cut correctly into shape
Pennisetum alopecuroides is usually planted. This specimen likes to grow in a hemispherical shape and should ideally be cut back that way. Here's how to do it: Simply cut straight back in the middle and slope downwards at the sides.
