Posted 10:23 pm Thursday, January 31, 2013
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Japanese silver grass stands out this time of year
By Dee Bishop
Smith County Master Gardener
Smith County Master Gardener
Of all the grasses we have, I think the Japanese silver grass is most beautiful in winter.
The first time I saw this grass was in my new yard in Birmingham, Ala. It was beautiful in summer with its variegated green and white foliage, but it was in winter that it stood out.
Japanese silver grass (miscanthus sinensis variegates) is easily grown.
Plant a gallon size pot and in three years you will have a large and beautiful clump.
This grass demands little other than a very sunny spot with good drainage. All the attention it needs is a good haircut in late January. You want to cut it to the ground so all the new leaves will get full sun and grow into its graceful fountain shape.
Miscanthus grass, there are many varieties and sizes, is often called maiden grass. This lovely variety, Japanese Silvergrass, never becomes a pest by reseeding all over the garden like other grasses.
We have two varieties in our gardens, this one and another called Miscanthus Morning Light. They are both perfect for a special focal point in the garden.
Remember they require full sun. If you put them in shade, they will flop.
Dee Bishop is a Smith County Master Gardener. She writes about plants that can be found within the Tyler Rose Garden.
The first time I saw this grass was in my new yard in Birmingham, Ala. It was beautiful in summer with its variegated green and white foliage, but it was in winter that it stood out.
Japanese silver grass (miscanthus sinensis variegates) is easily grown.
Plant a gallon size pot and in three years you will have a large and beautiful clump.
This grass demands little other than a very sunny spot with good drainage. All the attention it needs is a good haircut in late January. You want to cut it to the ground so all the new leaves will get full sun and grow into its graceful fountain shape.
Miscanthus grass, there are many varieties and sizes, is often called maiden grass. This lovely variety, Japanese Silvergrass, never becomes a pest by reseeding all over the garden like other grasses.
We have two varieties in our gardens, this one and another called Miscanthus Morning Light. They are both perfect for a special focal point in the garden.
Remember they require full sun. If you put them in shade, they will flop.
Dee Bishop is a Smith County Master Gardener. She writes about plants that can be found within the Tyler Rose Garden.
