Create a Lush Corner of Ornamental Grasses with This Simple Garden Plan

2015-06-09
Create a Lush Corner of Ornamental Grasses with This Simple Garden Plan

If you have yet to try an ornamental grass garden layout, or you think one type of ornamental grass looks much like any other grass, this corner of grasses garden plan will show you just how majestic and varied they can be. They're also super low-maintenance, so you can plant them and pretty much forget them.

The lush fountains of foliage are lovely in spring and summer, but ornamental grasses are nothing short of spectacular in fall, when their feathery seed heads sway in the breeze. The buff-colored plumes endure into winter, too, keeping the garden attractive when all else has gone dormant.

Plants for the Corner of Grasses Garden Plan

This garden plan combines several types of ornamental grasses for a pleasing mix of textures, colors, and heights. For contrast, this design also includes a few flowering perennials, which also require very little care and will thrive in a full sun spot.

If you can't find the exact cultivars listed above, substitute with another plant type with similar colors, shapes, and sizes.

Some plants can become overly aggressive and spread out of control in certain climates, so check which species are considered invasive before going ahead with your ornamental grass garden layout. For example, Miscanthus can become weedy in some areas, but this is usually less problematic when planting certain cultivars, such as 'Graziella' that's listed in this plan.

Get the Free Corner of Grasses Garden Plan

This garden design includes an illustrated version of the planted garden, a detailed layout diagram, a list of plants for the garden as shown, and complete instructions for installing the garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why should you plant ornamental grasses?

    Ornamental grasses provide texture, height, and color that complement almost any type of garden. Many of these grasses are perennials that come back every year and don't require much care.

  • When should you cut back ornamental grasses?

    You should cut back ornamental grass in late winter or early spring. This will allow you to enjoy the seed heads during winter before cutting back to make way for new growth.

  • Do ornamental grasses stay green all year?

    Some varieties of ornamental grasses, like sedge, are evergreen and remain green all year. Others will go dormant during the winter months and typically turn brown. It depends on the type of grass and your climate.

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