Reed grass - the dry stalks can be used as bedding for animal enclosures, the panicles of flowers make a good impression in autumn and with a height of 1.50 m you can use it as a small privacy screen. But only as long as the care is right…

Riding grass is an easy-care, decorative grass for the garden

Should you cut the riding grass?

A pruning of this ornamental grass is not absolutely necessary. Over time, the old stalks wither. But for the sake of appearance, you should cut away the old inflorescences and culms.

To do this, the grass is gathered into a tuft by hand. With the other hand, the plant parts are cut off. Cut them down to just above the bottom. As a precaution, it is advisable to wear gloves due to the sharp edges of the leaves.

When is the right time to cut?

The perfect time for pruning has come just before the fresh sprouting. This is usually the case in spring between February and March. Reed grass should not be cut in autumn, as its stalks serve as protection in winter, among other things, from moisture. In addition, together with the flowers or infructescence, they are considered pretty winter ornaments.

Does the riding grass need fertilizer?

When fertilizing, please note:

  • do not fertilize too much
  • Fertilizing in spring and at the beginning of flowering is beneficial
  • Enrich the planting hole with compost before planting
  • when kept in buckets: fertilize with liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks
  • do not fertilize after repotting in new soil

Do you have to water the riding grass regularly?

The water requirement of this plant is medium. It should be watered regularly, especially in dry seasons and in summer heat when there is no rain. In planters, watering plays a role all year round. The soil is poured when the top layer has dried. Make sure there is good drainage so that no waterlogging can form!

Is hibernation necessary?

This is what you should know about the riding grass in winter:

  • is hardy
  • reacts sensitively to winter wetness
  • Tie outdoor plants together in a tuft in November
  • Potted plants: wrap with fleece, place on a block of wood and cover the root area with straw
  • water sparingly when dry

tips

Every three to four years you should part your riding grass with a spade in the spring to rejuvenate it and keep it growing.

Category:

Vegetable garden