Grasses
Grasses have earned their rightful place in the modern garden, making them an essential and much loved group of plants. They offer much to gardeners adding colour, movement, height, texture and sound to gardens and it is for these very reasons that they are in high demand. Grasses vary greatly in height and colour making them suitable for most growing conditions and sites. If you would like to grow grasses from seed please view the full
seed selection.
How to grow
In general grasses are easy to grow and are relatively undemanding, making them perfect for the novice gardener or low maintenance garden.The plants on offer have been expertly grown meaning that they are now ready to be planted in the garden. When you receive your plants you should move them in to their final positions as soon as possible but if you cannot plant immediately, ensure your plants are watered and keep them moist and in a cool and bright space until planting is possible.
Position
Grasses will differ in what position they prefer and you should check with your growing instructions to achieve the optimum growing conditions. Most plants will enjoy a position in sun and thrive on most sites. Grasses can be grown as border plants, with species growing anywhere from the front to the back of the border, and
containers, such as
window boxes and
hanging baskets.
Soil
Grasses will grow well in most soil types with many thriving in poor soil. To get the best from your plants you should grow plants in a soil that is fertile, well-drained and moisture retentive. You can improve all soils with the addition of organic matter, such as well-rotted garden compost or multi-purpose
compost and an application of general plant
fertiliser or
liquid seaweed feed during the growing season and after flowering will help to promote strong and healthy plant growth.
Care
Little care is required when growing grasses and once established plants will be generally problem free. Water plants well after planting to ensure they do not dry out completely as this will ensure plants establish well, producing new roots and shoots. Most grasses will keep their foliage over winter with some species being evergreen. The best time to remove dead plant material is in the spring of each year. Remove this material by hand or with secateurs and take care to avoid damaging new growth and add this to the
compost bin. The addition of surface mulch in spring will help aid growth, conserve water and keep roots moist throughout summer. Well-rotted garden compost or multi-purpose compost will be sufficient.
Top tip
Grasses add much impact in the garden and to enhance this feeling plants can be planted in large drifts. To increase plant numbers, simply divide your plants in spring and items from the
potting and propagation page will be very useful.