Fall brings changing colors and textures to our lawns, but it’s also a wistful time as we prepare to say goodbye to annuals and other plants that disappear with the onset of cold weather. One such plant in my zone 5-6 backyard is red fountaingrass. Its pale plumes waving above its red, bronze and green tinted arching blades resemble a friendly greeting.

Ornamental grasses are hardy, and provide texture and colorful variety in your landscaping. Ornamental grasses are fairly easy to grow, but you don’t want to encourage them to spread as you would with turf grass. Some ornamental grasses spread in a manner similar to turf grass; their underground rhizomes spread and send up new shoots. This works well for cultivating a lush green lawn that can choke out weeds, but you don’t want ornamental grasses to spread freely and choke out other ornamental plants. other species may distribute seeds resulting in unwanted “volunteer” plants.

photo credit: www.urbanext.illinois.edu

photo credit: www.urbanext.illinois.edu

Suggested Uses

    Container gardens: Whether a single plant, or a group of containers positioned on patio, deck or poolside, ornamental grasses add interest and color.
    Ornamental grasses are great for Asian or Zen themed gardens, and add contemporary flair to landscaping.
    Use ornamental grasses in xeriscapes; after initial “watering in,” they require little supplemental water unless subjected to extreme heat.

Care and Maintenance

Ornamental grasses are ideal for busy households with little time for garden chores.

    After planting, water generously and continue to do so until plants are established.
    Fertilize with a slow release fertilizer in spring
    Handle grasses carefully, the edges of their blades can be sharp.
    Watch condition of plants and leaf color for deterioration or signs of dryness.

Enhance your turf grass lawn by adding ornamental grasses to landscaping and containers.