When to Cut Ornamental Grass: A Seasonal Guide for Beautiful Landscaping
If you’re wondering when to cut ornamental grass, you’re not alone. Ornamental grasses are a staple in many gardens, providing texture, movement, and year-round interest. However, knowing the right time to prune them can help maintain their health and enhance their visual appeal.
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Why Cut Ornamental Grasses?
Ornamental grasses go dormant during the winter months, leaving behind brown or faded growth from the previous season. While these grasses can still add curb appeal to your winter landscape, pruning them ensures they come back healthier and fuller in the growing season. According to the Missouri Botanical Garden, “Ornamental grasses offer beauty and utility to the garden, but maintenance is key to keeping them looking their best year after year.”
When to Cut Ornamental Grass: Cool-Season vs. Warm-Season
There are two categories of ornamental grasses and the best time to prune them depends on which type you have.
Cool-Season Grasses
Cool-season ornamental grasses grow actively in spring and fall, maintaining vibrant color through the summer months. These grasses don’t grow much during the heat of summer but remain a lush part of your garden’s landscape.
- When to Cut Cool-Season Grasses: Prune these grasses in late winter to early spring, as soon as the snow has melted and the ground begins to thaw. Cutting them back early prevents interference with the fresh new growth that starts emerging in spring.
Warm-Season Grasses
Warm-season grasses, on the other hand, remain dormant well into spring and start growing only in mid to late spring—or even early summer. Their tall, airy plumes make a striking feature through the winter months.
- When to Cut Warm-Season Grasses: The ideal time to cut warm-season grasses is in late spring, typically between March and April. This timing ensures you won’t inadvertently trim away new shoots, which can stunt their growth.
Missed the Ideal Time?
Don’t stress if you miss the window for either type of grass. It’s better to prune late than not at all. You can cut back dead growth anytime before new shoots emerge.
How to Cut Ornamental Grass
Pruning ornamental grasses is a straightforward task, but technique matters depending on the type of grass. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Cool-Season Grasses
- Cut the brown, dead blades back while leaving about one-third of the plant intact. This allows the plant to regenerate and keeps its shape intact for the growing season.
- Use sharp garden shears or hedge clippers to make clean cuts, which promote healthy regrowth.
Warm-Season Grasses
- Tie the grass into a bundle using twine to make cleanup easier.
- Cut the grass close to the ground, leaving just a few inches of stubble.
- Dispose of the cuttings or add them to your compost pile for an eco-friendly approach.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Ornamental Grasses
- Timing Matters: Always aim to prune before new growth begins to emerge to avoid accidentally cutting off the fresh blades.
- Keep Tools Sharp: Dull shears can damage the plant, making it harder for it to recover and thrive.
- Mulch and Fertilize: After pruning, consider adding a layer of mulch and a light application of fertilizer to boost new growth.
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By understanding when to cut ornamental grass, you can ensure these beautiful plants remain a striking feature in your garden year after year. Whether you’re dealing with cool-season or warm-season varieties, timely pruning and proper technique will set your garden up for success. For more inspiration and tips on maintaining your grasses, visit the Missouri Botanical Garden.
