As native grasses such as little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium and cvs., Zones 3–9) and prairie dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis and cvs., Zones 3–9) increasingly gain traction in gardens, exotics such as miscanthus (Miscanthus sinensis and cvs., Zones 4–9) are losing favor because of their invasive tendencies. But not all exotic grasses are troublesome and need to be avoided. Feather reed grass (Calamagrostis × acutiflora and cvs., Zones 5–9) is a natural hybrid of C. arundinacea and C. epigejos, which are both nonnatives and prolific self-sowers, but the hybrid rarely sets fertile seed—a major plus for an exotic grass, right? So why are other reed grasses—‘Karl Foerster’ aside—so underused? To answer that question is to understand the phenomenon of ‘Karl Foerster’ feather reed grass (C. × acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’).
Ornamental grass lovers- your time is at hand!
24.07.2023 - 12:08 / hgic.clemson.edu
The Perennial Plant of the Year® for 2022 is a lovely native grass, little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium). The Perennial Plant Association designates a plant of the year annually. They choose perennials that are “suitable for a wide range of growing climates, require low maintenance, have multiple-season interest, and are relatively pest/disease-free.”
Little bluestem certainly lives up to this designation. It is an attractive bunchgrass that transforms from blue-green in the summer to shades of coppery-red in the fall and winter. This prairie plant works well in combination with flowering perennials and other ornamental grasses. It prefers well-drained soils with low fertility and full sun. Deer tolerance is another great plus.
Like many native grasses, little bluestem is a good choice for supporting insects and birds. Several skipper butterfly species utilize little bluestem as a larval host, and it provides nesting resources for native bees. Birds and small mammals consume the seeds. Speaking of seeds, the fuzzy, white seed heads of little bluestem are attractive in fall, but they can sometimes self-seed in the landscape, so keep that in mind in terms of garden maintenance.
For the home garden, the native, wild type of little bluestem can be grown from seed. However, cultivars are considered more attractive since they have been selected for fuller, more compact plants and more vibrant colors.
Ornamental grasses are appropriate for almost any landscape. They bring drama and texture and provide just the right finishing touch. For more information, refer to HGIC 1178, Ornamental Grasses and Grass-like Plants.
The Science behind the Green Grass Courts of Wimbledon
An inseparable part of British summer time, the Wimbledon Championship is on between 29.06 – 17.07. With more than 450,000 spectators attending each year, and 19 grass courts, it is a massive event, yet it still retains its Victorian atmosphere and image.
Six pretty and practical ornamental vegetables
There’s nothing better than growing your own organic vegetables, freshly harvested and available to eat that day. However, here at Garden Organic’s demonstration garden we also want to grow produce that’s attractive and encourages pollinators and beneficial insects.
Lemon Tree Flowers Dropping? How to Get More Fruits on Your Lemon Tree
Lemon Tree Flower Drop might seem tragic, but that doesn’t put an end to your harvest. Wondering how? Check out our detailed article on How to Get More Fruits on Your Lemon Tree for the answer!
Ornamental Grass & Design
There are many families, species and varieties of grass suitable for ornamental purposes. Wether you want a prairie grass-scape, a potted plant or a focal point in a formal garden then there is a grass to suit. Grasses are well suited to a range of landscaping projects.
Grass for a New Gardeners Lawn
A well maintained green sward with stripes from a lawnmower is the epitome of a British garden. It could be something to do with the amount of rain we get but it also depends on the type and care of the grass.
Couch Grass Treatment & Cures
Will the EU ban the garden use of glyphosphate the best chemical cure for Couch grass?
Growing Bulbs in Grass
Naturalising means bulbs growing and seeding as they would in the wild; i.e. “in nature”.
Who Cuts the Grass
Woodbank Nursery in Harden W. Yorkshire has an interesting line in old garden equipment and mechanical ephemera. The various items are best seen over afternoon tea in the cafe where they complement the good healthy stock of plants. The exception is this lawnmower ‘recycled’ for the missus to use. The sign says ‘Does your wife cuts the lawn? If the answer is yes, why not spoil her rotten and buy her a ride on mower? You can even treat her again next year by adding some gears.’
May Flowering Ornamental Shrubs
I received a book for Easter entitled ‘Ornamental Shrubs for Temperate Gardens May Flowering’ by Edward Hyams. Since its publication in 1965 the botanic names of the odd variety may have changed (this is a continued source of annoyance to me as soon as I learn one Latin name it is changed into another). However the awe that spring blossom can produce may let me forget this minor issue.
Play Music to Your Grass
If Prince Charles can talk to flowers and plants perhaps your grass would like to listen to some classical music. Nocturnes may be more appropriate than ‘the floral dance’ or anything else that attracts weeds.