Pampas grass, also known as the Cortaderia Selloana, is a delight to behold in your gardens. It brings a great level of dynamism and freshness to the surrounding environment. The grass has been known to spread all over the perimeter of its environs once it has fully established in the soil and this can happen immediately after one season.
In order to get the best out of the Pampas grass in your lawn, we have itemized some tips that will help you care for this grass in season and out of season.
Provide Sufficient Irrigation
Ensure you provide the Pampas grass with enough moisture after you have planted it. Remember, that you cultivate a Pampas grass by transplanting, which subjects its root to stress. In order to avoid stunted growth as a result of the stress, provide the soil with enough moisture that the root can access. To be sure of the moisture-content of the soil, insert your finger into the soil by an inch, if it is still moist then your Pampas grass will survive.
Apply Fertilizers
The Pampas grass requires enough fertilizers, especially in its first year. Give it a fertilizer treatment at the beginning of spring, summer, and fall. After a complete season, you can now apply the fertilizers only at the beginning of spring.
Prune Annually
It takes an average of 3 complete seasons for the Pampas grass to fully establish itself. When this happens, you will have to commit to the annual pruning of old grass and roots that are beginning to overstep their boundaries.
Protect against Pests
Even though Pampas grass is known to be an invasive species. Many pests and birds still feel the need to make the grass their abode. It is also susceptible to a fungal disease. To be on a safer side, apply general pesticides to scare insects and birds and fungicides to kill the infections.
Prepare it for winter
As winter approaches, trim the grass and remove old grasses to make room for new ones. Get rid of any over-shooting stalks. Once the stalk is above 1 ft., cut it off. Ensure that the plant is bound together with a string while carrying out this process, it facilitates the removal of excess water from the grass. Before you trim, use string to tie the plant together. This will ensure that the roots stay dry enough to survive winter effectively into the next season.
If it seems like a lot, don’t worry, trained gardeners, like First Fruits Landscaping, can help you maintain your Pampas grass and give your lawn the look it deserves.