It is recommended to cut back feather reed grass, particularly Calamagrostis ‘Karl Foerster,’ by mid-February. This timing is crucial to ensure that the grasses are pruned before new growth begins in the spring. By cutting them back at this time, you can avoid damaging the new season’s growth, which could result in unsightly pruning cuts that remain visible throughout the entire growing season.
Feather reed grass is a popular ornamental grass known for its tall, upright growth habit and feathery plumes. It adds texture, movement, and a touch of elegance to the garden, making it a favorite among gardeners and landscapers alike. However, like many grasses, it benefits from regular maintenance, including pruning.
Pruning feather reed grass serves several purposes. Firstly, it helps to rejuvenate the plant and promote healthy growth. Over time, grasses can become congested and develop dead or damaged foliage at the base. By cutting them back, you can remove this old growth and stimulate new shoots to emerge from the crown of the plant. This not only improves the overall appearance of the grass but also helps to prevent disease and pest issues.
Secondly, cutting back feather reed grass helps to maintain its upright form. Without pruning, the grasses may become floppy or spread out, losing their desirable architectural shape. By cutting them back, you can encourage the growth of strong, vertical stems that will hold up well throughout the growing season. This is particularly important for Calamagrostis ‘Karl Foerster,’ as it is known for its stiff, upright habit.
Now, let’s discuss the timing of the pruning. Mid-February is generally considered the ideal time to cut back feather reed grass. This timing allows you to remove the old growth before new growth begins in the spring. If you wait too long to prune, you risk damaging the emerging shoots, which can lead to an unsightly appearance throughout the entire growing season.
When cutting back feather reed grass, it is important to use the right technique. Begin by gathering the grass into a bundle or clump, securing it with a bungee cord or twine. Then, use sharp garden shears or hedge trimmers to make the cuts. Aim to cut the grass back to a height of about 6-8 inches from the ground. This will leave enough foliage to protect the crown of the plant during winter while also allowing new growth to emerge unimpeded in the spring.
After pruning, it is a good idea to clean up any debris and remove it from the garden. This helps to prevent the spread of diseases and pests that may be harbored in the dead foliage. You can either compost the cuttings if they are disease-free or dispose of them in the appropriate manner.
Cutting back feather reed grass, including Calamagrostis ‘Karl Foerster,’ is highly recommended for maintaining the health, appearance, and upright form of the plant. By pruning in mid-February, before new growth begins in the spring, you can avoid damaging the emerging shoots and ensure a beautiful display of fresh foliage throughout the growing season. Remember to use proper pruning techniques and clean up any debris to promote a healthy garden environment.