Decoding the Optimal Seasons for Transplanting Ornamental Grasses

Ornamental grasses impart unique texture and motion to gardens with their slender blades and upright form From cool-seasonfeather reed grass to warm-season maiden grass, these resilient plants thrive in a variety of climates However, over time, many ornamental grasses outgrow their space or lose vigor. Frequent division is key to maintaining their health. Transplanting established clumps also generates new plants. But when’s the best time to transplant ornamental grasses? The ideal seasons vary by grass type. Read on for tips on identifying prime transplanting periods for a thriving grass collection.

Dividing Warm-Season Grasses

Warm-season ornamental grasses relish hot, sunny summers. Varieties like miscanthus, panicum, and switchgrass remain dormant in winter then explode with growth as temperatures rise. Their active growth period is summer into fall.

Early summer, just after new shoots emerge from the ground, is an optimal window for dividing warm-season grasses. Their small tender growth is less prone to damage during transplanting. Work carefully to keep young shoots intact. Well-hydrated soil also aids the job.

Later summer, once warm-season grasses finish growing and begin forming flower plumes, presents another prime dividing opportunity Move grasses several weeks before your average first fall frost so roots settle before winter dormancy

Splitting Cool-Season Grasses

Cool-season ornamental grasses relish cooler temperatures and actively grow in spring and fall. Varieties like calamagrostis, deschampsia, and stipa green up quickly in spring then often sail through summer. Late winter or early spring allows time for root development before active top growth resumes. Dividing in fall is another option but increases winter frost heaving risks.

Early spring transplanting in March or April is likely the single best time to divide cool-season grasses. Clumps are still small but eager to grow. Bare root divisions will establish faster than during warm months. Just wait until frost risk passes. Water well after planting.

Dividing Evergreen Grasses

Evergreen grasses like cortaderia and saccharum maintain their form year-round. Their constant foliar growth makes selecting a dormant period for transplanting trickier. However, even evergreens periodically slow down during winter’s short days and cold.

Early to mid-winter allow evergreen grassroots a brief resting period to recover before resuming growth. Reduce transplant shock by choosing a mild day above freezing for divisions. Pampas grass specifically can be divided while dormant anytime between November and March.

Top Tips for Transplanting Ornamental Grasses

• Prep planting beds 2-3 weeks early by amending soil and digging wide holes.

• Water grasses thoroughly 1-2 days before digging to moisten soil

• Use sharp shovels and knives for clean cuts when dividing clumps.

• Rapidly replant divisions at proper depth and spacing. Don’t let roots dry out.

• Water transplants consistently until established, never letting roots dry completely.

• Allow sufficient time for transplants to root before expecting vigorous growth.

Signs It’s Time to Divide Ornamental Grasses

Notice these clues that ornamental grasses need dividing or thinning:

• Centers die out and growth primarily occurs around the edges.

• Overall foliage seems less vigorous, sparse, or stunted.

• Flowering declines compared to previous years.

• The clump diameter exceeds original spacing, crowding other plants.

• Division is needed every 3-5 years to rejuvenate most varieties.

Expanding Your Collection Through Division

Dividing mature grasses provides a simple way to gain more plants for free. After transplanting pieces, you’ll likely have leftover divisions. Here are suggestions for putting them to use:

• Plant extras throughout the garden for infill or to start new beds.

• Give or sell surplus divisions to fellow gardeners looking for ornamental grasses.

• Use small divisions to establish grasses in containers mixed with annuals or perennials.

• Donate overstock to schools, community gardens, or conservation groups.

Sharing divisions is a great way to spread your love of ornamental grasses. And you’ll free up space for existing grasses to keep growing vigorously.

Revitalize Overgrown Grasses Through Timely Division

Ornamental grasses are resilient, but occasional division is key to maintaining their health, beauty, and productivity. Follow their growth habits to determine the best seasons for transplanting each variety. Move warm-season grasses in early summer or fall and divide cool-season grasses in spring or fall. Evergreen grasses prefer winter divisions.

With proper timing and care, transplanted grasses will swiftly re-establish. Soon, their fresh foliage and bountiful blooms will bring dynamic textures and movement to your landscape once again. Don’t be daunted by the task of dividing grasses. A bit of timely work easily pays off in revitalized plants and expanded collections.