Silvergrass (Miscanthus) is a beautiful ornamental grass known for its attractive silvery-white plumes that gracefully sway in the breeze. With its fine texture and year-round interest, silvergrass is a wonderful addition to gardens and landscapes. Here is a detailed guide on how to successfully grow and care for silvergrass.
Choosing a Variety
There are several popular varieties of silvergrass to choose from:
- M. sinensis – The most common variety with slender green leaves that turn yellow in fall. Grows in clumps up to 6 feet tall and wide.
- M. transmorrisonensis – A compact clumping variety that reaches 3-4 feet tall and wide. Horizontally banded foliage.
- M. sacchariflorus – Grows in a vase shape up to 8 feet tall. Wider plumes than other varieties.
- M. strictus – A stiffly upright variety that can reach 10 feet tall. Good wind tolerance.
- M. zebrinus – Horizontally banded green and yellow foliage. Grows 5-6 feet tall and wide.
Consider mature size when choosing a variety for your space. Dwarf varieties like M. sinensis ‘Little Kitten’ are better suited to smaller gardens.
Planting Conditions
Silvergrass thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Amend clay soils with compost or organic matter to improve drainage. Space plants 2-3 feet apart depending on mature size.
Silvergrass is hardy in USDA zones 5-9. It can tolerate light frosts but benefits from mulching in very cold winter areas. Avoid wet or poorly drained sites which can cause root rot.
Planting and Propagation
Silvergrass can be planted in spring once frost danger has passed. Container grown plants can be planted anytime during the growing season as long as adequate moisture is provided.
- Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball.
- Carefully remove from container and loosen any circling roots.
- Place in hole with top of root ball level with soil surface.
- Backfill hole and water thoroughly to settle soil.
Silvergrass can also be propagated by division in spring when new growth appears. Simply dig up clumps and divide into smaller sections, ensuring each division has some root mass and buds. Replant divisions and water well.
Care and Maintenance
Silvergrass requires minimal care once established:
- Water deeply 1-2 times per week during first growing season to establish an extensive root system. Reduce frequency after establishment.
- Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid piling mulch against crown.
- Fertilize in spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer following package directions.
- Prune away any dead or damaged foliage in early spring.
- Divide large clumps every 2-3 years in spring to control size.
- Cut back foliage to 6 inches in late winter before new growth emerges.
Problems and Solutions
Silvergrass is relatively pest and disease free, but may encounter:
- Fungal leaf spots – Promoted by overhead watering and humidity. Improve air circulation and avoid wetting foliage.
- Mealybugs – Swab off with alcohol dipped cotton swab. Horticultural oils also effective.
- Root rot – Plant in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
- Rust – Fungal disease favored by wet conditions. Improve air circulation and water early in day.
- Winter damage – Protect from harsh winter winds. Use frost blanket if temperature drops below -10°F.
Uses in Landscaping
Silvergrass serves many functions in gardens and landscapes:
- Provides vertical interest and movement as a backdrop or screen.
- Excellent erosion control on slopes and banks.
- Borders gardens, walkways, and other hardscapes. Repeat as a unifying element.
- Mass as a groundcover or fill in larger spaces.
- Accent plant in perennial beds, mixed borders, and cottage gardens.
- Poolside or water gardens. Tolerates moist soil.
- Dried plumes used in floral arrangements and DIY projects.
With its fine texture and shimmering plumes, silvergrass brings light and motion to the landscape. Give this versatile and carefree grass a spot in full sun and watch it steal the show!
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does silvergrass grow?
Silvergrass grows fairly quickly, up to 2-3 feet per year once established. It reaches mature size in about 3 years depending on variety. Proper planting and care will maximize growth rate.
What is the best time to plant silvergrass?
Spring and fall are ideal planting times for silvergrass. Avoid summer heat. Container plants can be planted anytime with adequate watering.
Should I cut back silvergrass in winter?
Yes, cut back foliage to around 6 inches in late winter just before new growth emerges. This removes unsightly dead foliage and encourages fresh spring growth.
How do I propagate silvergrass?
Silvergrass can easily be propagated by division in early spring when new shoots appear. Simply divide large clumps into smaller sections, ensuring each division has roots and growth buds.
What are the best companion plants for silvergrass?
Silvergrass pairs nicely with purple coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, sedums, asters, Russian sage, and other prairie style perennials.DAYLILIES Evergreens like junipers and spruces contrast well with silvergrass foliage.
Conclusion
With its graceful plumes and carefree growth, silvergrass is a valuable ornamental grass for gardens in a wide range of climates. Select an appropriate variety for your space and provide full sun and well-drained soil for best performance. Divide clumps every few years to control size and cut back foliage in late winter. Silvergrass requires minimal care while providing year-round beauty and motion. Incorporate this versatile grass as an accent, border, screen or massed planting in your landscape.