Ornamental grasses are exactly what their name implies: grasses that are grown for their beauty and aesthetic appeal, rather than for their practical uses like making hay or feeding livestock. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and can add texture, movement, and interest to any garden.

Here are some of the things that make ornamental grasses so special:

They are versatile: Ornamental grasses can be used in a variety of ways in the garden, from borders and edging to mass plantings and focal points. They can also be grown in containers or as part of a water feature.

They are low-maintenance: Once they are established, ornamental grasses are generally quite low-maintenance. They do not need a lot of water or fertilizer, and they are relatively pest- and disease-resistant.

They provide year-round interest: Many ornamental grasses have attractive foliage that lasts all year long, even in winter. Some also have interesting seed heads or plumes that add color and texture to the garden in the fall and winter.

They are good for the environment: Ornamental grasses can help to improve soil health, prevent erosion, and provide habitat for wildlife.

If you are thinking about adding ornamental grasses to your garden, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Sun or shade: Some ornamental grasses prefer full sun, while others will tolerate some shade. Be sure to choose grasses that are suited to the amount of sunlight your garden gets.

Soil drainage: Most ornamental grasses prefer well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy clay, you may need to amend it with compost or sand before planting.

Size: Ornamental grasses come in a wide range of sizes, from dwarf varieties that only grow a few inches tall to giants that can reach ten feet or more. Be sure to choose grasses that are the right size for your garden.

With a little planning, you can easily create a beautiful and low-maintenance garden with ornamental grasses.

Planting ornamental grasses is generally a simple process, but like all good things, a little preparation can set you up for success. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you:

Before you plant:

Choose your grasses: Consider sun exposure, soil type, desired size and growth habit (clumping vs. spreading) when selecting your grass varieties.

Timing: Ideally, plant in spring or early autumn for optimal establishment before harsh weather. However, in mild climates, planting year-round is possible.

Gather your tools: You will need a shovel, gloves, water source, compost (optional), and possibly a trowel for smaller pots.

Planting:

Prepare the planting hole: Dig a hole about twice the width and depth of the plant's pot. Loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole to encourage root growth.

Amend the soil (optional): If your soil is heavy clay or sandy, mix in compost or other organic matter for better drainage and water retention.

Remove the grass from the pot: Gently break up any tightly circling roots to encourage exploration into the new soil. Avoid pulling on the leaves.

Position the grass: Place the plant in the hole at the same depth it was in the pot. The crown (where the leaves emerge) should be slightly above the surrounding soil level.

Backfill the hole: Fill the hole around the plant with soil, gently pressing it down to remove air pockets.

Water thoroughly: Give the plant a good soaking to settle the soil and encourage root growth.

Aftercare:

Water regularly: Maintain consistent moisture especially during the first season. Gradually reduce watering as the plant establishes, typically after 4-6 weeks.

Mulch (optional): Apply a thin layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Fertilize sparingly: Ornamental grasses rarely need additional fertilizer. Once a year in spring with a general fertilizer is typically sufficient.

Pruning: Most grasses require minimal pruning. Remove dead foliage in spring before new growth emerges. Some varieties may benefit from a fall cutback to maintain shape.

Additional tips:

Read the specific care requirements for your chosen ornamental grass varieties.

Group varieties with similar sun and water needs for efficient maintenance.

Consider the mature size of the grasses when designing your planting scheme.

Do not be afraid to experiment and play with different textures and colors!

With these tips and a little TLC, your ornamental grasses will thrive and add beauty and movement to your garden for years to come.

The world of ornamental grasses is vast and diverse, offering a stunning array of shapes, sizes, textures, and colors to enhance your garden. Here is a glimpse into some popular varieties, categorized by key characteristics:

By Height:

Short (under 2ft): Blue Fescue, Hakonechloa macra, Mondo Grass, Little Bunny Grass

Medium (2-5ft): Maiden Grass, Muhly Grass, Switch Grass, Japanese Forest Grass

Tall (over 5ft): Feather Reed Grass, Pampas Grass, Giant Reed Grass, Miscanthus 'Giganteus'

By Sun Preference:

Full Sun: Switch Grass, Maiden Grass, Blue Oat Grass, Hakonechloa macra

Part Sun/Shade: Hakonechloa macra, Liriope, Japanese Sedge, Pennisetum alopecuroides

By Growth Habit:

Clumping: Most varieties, forming neat, well-defined mounds

Spreading: Can be invasive in some conditions, require control measures

By Foliage Color:

Green: Most common, but varies in shades (blue-green, lime green, etc.)

Variegated: Stripes or splashes of white, gold, or cream

Red/Purple: Stunning autumnal hues in varieties like Switch Grass and Pennisetum

By Texture:

Fine: Delicate blades like hair, seen in Hakonechloa macra and Liriope

Coarse: Bold, upright leaves like Miscanthus and Feather Reed Grass

Fountain-like: Arching foliage cascading gracefully, as in Pennisetum alopecuroides

Beyond these basic categories, many exciting possibilities exist:

Grasses with feathery plumes: Maiden Grass, Reed Grass, Pink Muhly Grass

Grasses with colorful seed heads: Switch Grass, Pennisetum, Purple Millet

Grasses with fragrant foliage: Lemon Grass, Blue Flag Iris (not technically a grass)

This is just a starting point, and there are countless other amazing ornamental grasses to discover. Remember to consider your specific garden needs and preferences when choosing varieties. Happy planting!