Reed is very easy to care for, which makes it a popular plant for the garden and pond greening. Nevertheless, you should spoil it from time to time so that it grows nice and evenly.

Reeds require almost no maintenance

Reed is not just reed

Different plants are colloquially referred to as reeds, which also differ in their location and care requirements.
In general, reed means three different types of reed:

  • reed
  • Chinese reed
  • Cattails

A comprehensive overview of the subspecies and their special features can be found here.

While reeds and cattails need marshy soil and usually grow at the edges of ponds, the sweet grass Chinese reed is often grown on beds.

Maintain reeds

In principle, reeds used as pond plants do not require any care at all. If the reeds are in the water with their roots, you don't need to worry about watering. The nutrient supply for pond plants is usually given by the fish and rotting plant parts in the water. Reeds are hardy, so you don't have to worry about overwintering.

Cultivate Chinese reed

Chinese reed is also very easy to care for, but should be watered regularly. However, the decorative sweet grass usually survives short dry periods unscathed. During the main growth phase, i.e. in late spring, Chinese reed is happy about a portion of compost. Additional fertilizers are not necessary. Chinese reed is also hardy and does not need winter protection.

Prepare for winter

Before the first cold snap, it makes sense to tie the reeds together. This prevents the dry grass from breaking off and protects the roots from frost. Don't cut back the reeds before the onset of winter! The pruning takes place in the spring. The reed does not need winter protection because it is very hardy.

All reed species need pruning

No matter which type of reed you choose, reeds should be cut back radically in the spring. Only grab the scissors when no more frost is to be expected and cut the dried stalks down to just above the ground. It is important that the reeds do not sprout yet, otherwise you will destroy the new shoots and slow down growth enormously. Spring is also the best time to plant new reeds.
Further information and helpful tips for pruning can be found here.

Category:

Vegetable garden