Growing Guide • Ornamental Grasses

Ornamental grasses are excellent for adding texture and movement to floral arrangements, both fresh and dried. When growing them for floral use, it’s important to harvest at the right stage to preserve their natural beauty. For fresh arrangements, cut grasses when their seed heads are fully formed but still soft and pliable. This ensures they maintain their shape and structure in vases. For drying, wait until the seed heads are fully matured and dried on the plant, then cut and hang them upside down in a cool, dark space. Proper harvesting and drying techniques will allow ornamental grasses to retain their form, color, and texture, making them perfect for long-lasting arrangements. These grasses provide a unique, airy quality that complements both delicate flowers and bold, dramatic blooms

Silver Tip

  • Sow about 4 weeks before the last frost date. Sow seeds 1/4" deep, 1-2" apart.

  • Dry, well-drained, average soil. Drought tolerant, but will not do well in clay soil. Full Sun.

  • Fresh or dried: When seed heads have matured but are still green. For varieties with dark awns, wait to cut until the awns begin to darken. Hang to dry.

Pampas, Mexican Feather, Hare’s Tail

  • Gently press the grass seed into the surface of the potting mix, ensuring it is exposed to light for proper germination. Avoid covering the seeds with more than ⅛ of an inch of soil. Water the seeds to establish good contact between the seed and soil. For consistent warmth, place the tray of starts on a heating mat or atop the refrigerator. To maintain moisture without additional watering, place the pots in a sealed plastic bag, which still allows for air circulation. Depending on the type of grass, germination can take anywhere from one week to a month.

  • In Zone 5, transplant ornamental grasses outdoors after the danger of frost has passed into an area with full sun, typically around mid-May. Wait until nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 50°F (10°C). Before transplanting, harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a period of 7-10 days. This process helps the young plants adjust to the cooler temperatures and sunlight, ensuring they establish well in their new location. Be sure to choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil for optimal growth.

  • Ornamental grasses grown from seed typically take between 70 to 120 days to reach maturity, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Fast-growing annual grasses like Lagurus ovatus (Bunny Tails) may be ready to harvest in about 70-90 days, while others can take closer to 90-120 days. For floral use, harvest when the seed heads are fully developed but before they begin to shed or turn brown. Drying grasses should be cut once the seed heads are mature and firm.