In the fall or after transplanting, the leaves of pampas grass often turn brown and look dried out. Many gardeners assume that the ornamental grass has died. However, this is rarely the case, because pampas grass is very robust in the right location.
The pampas grass "dries up" in the fall, but sprout again in the spring
Pampas grass looks dried up
If many or all leaves dry up in autumn, this is a completely normal process. Even evergreen varieties get brown leaves.
Be sure to leave the dried parts in the fall. They form a good winter protection for the eyrie of the plant. If you cut the stems too early, moisture will penetrate and cause the perennial to rot. Pampas grass is only cut in the spring.
Tie all the leaves and fronds together at the top in autumn. Then not so much moisture from rain and snow gets on the pampas grass eyrie.
Brown leaves due to improper care
Concern arises when the leaves dry up during the peak season. Here are the most common maintenance errors:
- Pampas grass is too dry
- Waterlogging has formed
- Plant does not get enough nutrients
Pampas grass likes very dry soil. However, it must not dry out completely. You must therefore water on very hot summer days or in very dry winters. Pampas grass tolerates waterlogging even less. Make sure the floor is permeable to water.
Since pampas grass grows very quickly, it needs a lot of nutrients. If these are missing in the soil, the plant can no longer supply all the shoots and leaves, so that they turn brown and dry up. Fertilize regularly with compost or liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Leaves dry up after transplanting
If the leaves dry up after transplanting the ornamental grass, you don't need to worry. Pampas grass takes a while to get used to the new location.
If there is enough water and nutrients, the plant will quickly recover from transplanting.
Do not cut off the dried leaves, but wait until spring to cut them.
tips
Pampas grass is also good for drying. To do this, cut off the fronds in autumn and hang them upside down in a warm, light and dry place. They can keep for several years in a dry bouquet.