Increase curb appeal and backyard beauty with any of these hardy, easy-to-grow ornamental grasses.
You will have lots of options for ornamental grasses. You can find those with colorful foliage, feathery tops and tall clumps. The grasses are usually grown in containers and can be placed at the entrance of your home, for a more welcoming feel. They are easy to grow and care for and will need little to no fertilizer in order to thrive.
Steps for Growing Ornamental Grass in Containers
As mentioned, growing ornamental grasses is easy. If you are new on this, here are the steps to guide you.
1. Add Soil
Fill the container with soil. The ornamental grasses will grow best on moistened soil. Create a shallow trench surrounding the container with the use of your finger.
2. Choose your Seeds
There are several different types of ornamental grasses. Be sure to choose the best varieties to grow. Some of the best ones are Red Fountain Grass, Fiber Optic Grass, Ravennagrass, etc.
3. Sow the Seeds
Sprinkle the seeds into the soil and cover them with a little amount of soil. Position the container in an area that receives a lot of sunlight and ensure that the soil is slightly moist.
4. Choose a Sunny Spot
You should grow your ornamental grasses in areas that receive a lot of sun. Plant it in a lightly moistened soil and in two to four weeks, you will notice that the seeds will begin to germinate.
5. Water the Grass
Water your grasses a little only once the soil is looking a bit dry. Just like with other plants, your ornamental grasses can thrive on almost drought conditions so if it has rained the entire week, then they may only need a little amount of watering.
Best Ornamental Grasses for Containers
1. Red Fountain Grass
Fountain grass is a natural for containers, filling the pot with its fountain-like, arching habit. The rich, burgundy color of the ‘Rubrum’ cultivar makes it a favorite even where it is not hardy (it is a fast-growing grass that is easily grown as an annual). The narrow-bladed leaves grow 3 to 4 feet tall, with flower spikes that extend to 4 or 5 feet.
2. Fiber Optic Grass
The Fiber Optic grasses can grow well enough in the tropics. They usually thrive in the colder climate and can be grown as annuals. It is also one of the best ornamental grasses for containers. It hangs down gently in a curve when grown, which creates an extraordinary effect.
The Fiber Optic grass is a low growing plant and can be planted in partial to full sunlight. It thrives well in moist soil and can also be grown indoors. Since it can withstand moisture, it can also be planted near ponds or pools. It is very easy to grow and only has a few disease and pest problems.
3. New Zealand flax
New Zealand flax is frequently used and seldom recognized. Although they are not true grasses, their leaves can be very grass-like and they are used for similar landscape purposes. For spiky, sword-like form and a variety of colors, including greens, reds, copper, and yellow, they are perhaps the most versatile container grass-like plants. There are many cultivars available, ranging from 3 to 9 feet in height, with attractive sword-shaped leaves.
4. Blue Oat Grass
When it comes to being a low maintenance ornamental grass, the Blue Oat grass tops the list. The plant is known for having a wonderful mounded habit and will not easily spread out and take over your entire garden.
Containers of blue oat grass bring a cooling blue-gray to the garden as well as a gentle rustling sound and a texture that makes you want to reach out and touch the plant. The plants grow 2 to 3 feet tall, with thin spiky leaves and a clumping growth habit.
5. Japanese Forest Grass
The Japanese forest grass is one of the most elegant ornamental grasses for containers. It is a slow growing plant that will require little maintenance as soon as its established. These ornamental grasses are semi evergreen and will grow best in a partially shaded area. There are various colors of the Japanese forest grasses. It is important that you choose a color that will complement well with the surrounding landscape.
6. Pink Muhly Grass
One of the best types of ornamental grasses is the Pink Muhly grass because of its beautiful clouds of pink that brings color into your yard. These grasses are heat tolerant and sun loving and produces the finest color in your garden during fall. It’s known for its pink to purple blooms that float just above the plant’s body in a beautiful airy display. Although the other grass textures will accentuate the motion of the wind, the pink muhly will blur it, creating a beautiful pink cloud.