Introduction

Ornamental grasses are a beautiful and versatile addition to any landscape. They add texture, interest, and movement to your yard, and they can be used in a variety of ways, from borders to groundcovers to screening. However, in order to keep your ornamental grasses looking their best, it is important to trim them regularly.

When to Trim Ornamental Grass

The best time to trim ornamental grass is in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. This will help to remove any dead or damaged leaves and encourage new growth. You can also trim ornamental grass in the fall, after it has gone dormant. However, it is important to avoid trimming ornamental grass in the summer, as this can damage the plant.

How to Cut Back Different Types of Grass

There are many different types of ornamental grasses, and each type requires a slightly different cutting technique. Here are some general guidelines for cutting back different types of grass:

• Upright grasses, such as maiden grass and fountain grass, should be cut back to about 6 inches tall in the late winter or early spring. This will help to promote new growth and prevent the grass from becoming too leggy.
• Clumping grasses, such as blue fescue and sheep fescue, should be cut back to about 4 inches tall in the late winter or early spring. This will help to keep the grass looking tidy and prevent it from becoming too overgrown.
• Spreading grasses, such as liriope and mondo grass, should be cut back to about 2 inches tall in the late winter or early spring. This will help to control the spread of the grass and prevent it from becoming invasive.

Tips for Cutting Ornamental Grass

Here are a few tips for cutting ornamental grass:

• Use sharp shears or a lawnmower to cut ornamental grass. Dull blades can damage the grass and make it more susceptible to disease.
• Cut ornamental grass in the morning when the grass is dry. This will help to prevent the grass from becoming matted and will make it easier to cut.
• Wear gloves and long sleeves when cutting ornamental grass. The blades of ornamental grass can be sharp and can cause cuts or irritation.
• Dispose of the cut grass clippings by composting them or adding them to your lawn clippings. This will help to recycle the nutrients back into the soil.

Conclusion

Trimming ornamental grass is an important part of maintaining a healthy and attractive lawn. By following the tips in this guide, you can keep your ornamental grass looking its best for years to come.