August 2026
To some people the word “grass” means a pretty lawn that ties together the plants in a landscape and makes the home the focal point of it all. To others it reminds them of a highly manicured green on which they play golf. But there are other types of grasses that serve another purpose which is to add some different textures to a landscape. These grasses also are attractive in their own right plus they introduce different colors, different forms and most will move in the wind thus providing a new element to the landscape. Some even have flowers.
Not too many of the ornamental grasses are evergreen and most are actually perennials which reveal their beauty during the growing season. But being a perennial you don’t have to plant them but one time. And they give a different color as they move into the winter months. Some people don’t like the tans and browns of their winter foliage and cut them back. And most have to be cut back in the break between winter and summer. When doing this, make the cuts above any emerging foliage to save the spring and summer beauty.
Most of the ornamental grasses require little attention and usually will survive in harsh environments with little watering. However, they may perform somewhat better if they receive an occasional rain or some supplemental water is provided. Large and dense species are good screening plants that can block undesirable views.
Depending on what you need you can get ornamental grasses that range in size from less than a foot to up to 15 feet. Some species have additional qualities to offer such as fountain-like or rounded forms and eye-catching colors. But the most unique quality of many is their motion in the wind. Few other plants can duplicate this quality.
Still another feather that most gardeners and homeowners like about ornamental grasses is their ease of maintenance. They ‘re relatively disease free nor do most insects like them which translates into less spraying for pest control.
Once established, little fertilization is needed. Another feather that most homeowners like is that they tend to be very adaptive. Thus, it’s usually no problem to find one that is tolerant of full or part sun. Some can even handle a little shade while a few will adapt to somewhat heavier shade.
When planting ornamental grasses in existing beds, little improvement to the soil is needed. Planting is also easy. Just plant at the same level your clump of grass was growing in its container and water heavily. They can also be planted in the heat of summer…successfully.
Since most ornamental grasses do not form runners like Bermuda grass, but rather develop clumps they do not become a problem invader. The clumps just continue to get larger and when too big can be divided.
JOE W. WHITE, PH.D.
Extension Horticulturist, (ret)
LSU AgCenter