411homerepair.com

How to Grow Ornamental Grasses

by Guest Post on Jan 2, 2010

Ornamental grasses have become extremely popular in the past ten years or so, and if you buy them at a garden center they are kind of pricey. Learning how to grow them yourself is actually quite easy. They can be grown from seed, but I won’t pretend to be an expert at that for several reasons. One, I don’t know anything about growing them from seed, and two, I have no desire to propagate them from seed because seedlings require too much care.

The easiest and most effective way to propagate them is through simple division. Of course, you will need at least one parent plant of each variety that you would like to grow. If you shop around you might be able to find some 4” inch pots at a fair price.

One of each variety is good for a start. I find that the best time of the year to divide them is in the spring, just before the new growth emerges. If you buy the stock plants in the early spring, you might be able to divide them right away. If you buy them at any other time of the year, just plant them in your garden or other suitable location, knowing that you are going to dig them up in a few months, or a year or so.

When spring arrives you can divide them at any time as long as they are not well into putting on new growth. The earlier the better. To divide them simply dig up the root mass and start dividing it into pieces. The divisions do not have to be very large. It’s difficult to describe, but as long as you have some roots, the new plant is likely to grow. If you have small young plants you can probably just tear the root mass apart with your hands, but if the root mass is very big then you are going to need some tools. You might need some heavy-duty tools!

Last spring I divided several grass plants that had been in my landscape for a few years. When I dug out the root mass it was much larger and denser than I expected. Using a very good digging spade and some real elbow power I was able to chop the root mass into quarters, and I replanted the quarters back into my landscape. That still left many clumps that I wanted to divide into very small plants that I could put up in 2-quart containers. The root mass was too dense to tear apart with my hands, so I literally got a hammer and a 4” wide mason’s chisel and chiseled off pieces. It worked and I now have a couple of hundred beautiful little grass plants in 2-quart containers.

Since then I have talked with a friend of mine who works for a large wholesale grower, and he told me that you never want to let an ornamental grass plant get that big if you intend to divide it. He said they plant small divisions in the field in the spring, and dig them up the following spring and divide them again. He assured me that if you get them just 12 months later, they can be easily torn apart by hand.

Latest Articles

5 Reasons to Use Gutter Cleaning Services

Gutters protect your home from water damage by directing rainwater away from your roof, walls, and foundation. However, they often required regular...

on Nov 14, 2024

Before You Sign: How Home Inspections Identify Hidden Hazards in Your Future Home

Buying a home is exciting, but hidden dangers can turn that dream into a nightmare if not addressed early on. Beyond what is visible during a...

on Oct 18, 2024

The Appeal and Longevity of Natural Oil Finishes for Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors exude warmth, character, and timeless appeal in any home. To preserve and enhance these qualities, choosing the right finish is...

on May 17, 2024

Understanding Indonesia’s Real Estate Investment Laws for Foreigners

Indonesia, with its stunning landscapes, deep-rooted cultural heritage, and renowned hospitality, has emerged as a top destination for foreigners...

on Jan 25, 2024

Real Estate Development in Asian Cities

In many Asian cities, the rapid pace of urban development has led to the decline of historic districts, areas once teeming with cultural richness...

on Jan 25, 2024

Actions

More DIY Articles

The Best Types of Perennials for Beautiful Spring Planters

Fall planting gives perennials a head start over those established in spring. Fewer insects are around to torment or damage plants in the fall. As...

Garden / Landscaping / Patio

Is it Cheaper to Build Your Own Shed?

If your home is becoming crowded with clutter and your garage is overflowing to the point that you do not even remember what you do and do not own...

Construction / Materials

Light Up Your Dining Room!

Did you know that how we eat is almost as important as what we eat? For instance, a meal in a relaxed, beautiful, well-lit ambiance is better than...

Electrical / Lighting

Tips for Using Slipcovers on Awkward Shaped Furniture

Furniture slipcovers are great for improving the appearance of old sofas and chairs, or for protecting good quality furniture from pet hairs and...

Bedroom / Furnishings

8 Best Ways You Can Organize Cabinets in Your Kitchen

Arranging kitchen cabinets is vital in order to make the kitchen look orderly. A better organization also helps you to easily access every item in...

Kitchen / Bathrooms

Contact Us | Submit Article | 411homerepair © 2024