Pennisetum is one of the most attractive structure formers in the flower bed. The ornamental grass is also extremely good as a green privacy screen. It is also relatively easy to propagate. The most common methods are presented in detail in the following article.
Propagation via seeds is possible, but often not crowned with success
multiply by division
Pennisetum grass is a warm-season grass and should therefore always be divided in early spring, before new growth occurs:
- First, cut off the dried stalks about a hand's breadth above the ground.
- Dig up the eyrie with a spade or grave goods.
- Young grasses can still easily be pierced with a spade. For older plants you may need an ax or saw.
- Divide the root ball into three to four parts.
You can then use them at their new location. In order for the feather bristle grass to grow well, you can improve compacted soil with some sand or gravel. A drainage layer in the planting hole has also proven its worth, as the lamp cleaning grass is very sensitive to waterlogging.
Propagation by seed
Some species such as Pennisetum alopecuroides or Pennisetum villosum can be propagated from seeds. However, not all varieties cultivated in our gardens are suitable for this and even those whose seeds are germinable may not be successful.
If you still want to try, proceed as follows:
- Fill commercial potting soil into small plastic pots.
- Place a few seeds on top and cover thinly with substrate.
- Dampen with a sprayer and cover with a hood or clear plastic bag.
- Ventilate daily. This prevents mold and rot.
- Water carefully if necessary.
- When the plants have reached a size of three to four centimetres, you can prick them out.
Place the seed pots (€16.68) in a bright place with an average temperature of 24 degrees. The germination period varies greatly, it is between one and six weeks. So you may need some patience until the cotyledons show up.
tips
The division of the lamp cleaner grass is not only for propagation. After this care measure, the ornamental grass will sprout more vigorously and will bloom more luxuriantly as a result. You should therefore occasionally divide older clumps, even if you have no use for the individual pieces.