How to Grow Big Bluestem Grass
Wikimedia Commons
Big Bluestem Grass
Andropogon gerardii
grassBig bluestem is a native North American perennial grass prized for its tall stature, reaching 4-8 feet, and distinctive three-pronged seed heads that resemble a turkey foot. Known for its deep root system that can extend 12 feet into the soil, it's excellent for erosion control, habitat restoration, and ornamental use. The foliage turns striking burgundy and purple hues in fall.
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Example Big Bluestem Grass timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Big Bluestem Grass
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Big Bluestem Grass
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, with best performance in zones 4-8
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Get my Big Bluestem Grass timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Seedling
2-4 weeksTiny grass shoots emerge from soil; plants develop fine leaf blades and shallow root system
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide full sun. Thin seedlings to proper spacing. Protect from foot traffic.
Establishment
3-6 monthsFirst-year growth with clumps expanding and developing more numerous tillers; modest height growth of 1-2 feet
Water regularly during dry periods. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Do not fertilize heavily. Avoid mowing.
Vegetative Growth
Spring through early AugustEstablished plants produce multiple shoots and reach 3-4 feet tall by late summer; deep root system expands significantly
Minimal water needed except in drought. Light nitrogen fertilization in spring can boost growth if desired. Monitor for weeds in year 2-3.
Flowering & Seed Head Development
August-NovemberThree-pronged seed heads (turkey foot) emerge in late August-September; stems turn burgundy, purple, and red; foliage becomes ornamentally striking
Do not deadhead unless removing seeds. Enjoy the colorful display. Seed heads persist into winter. Allow senescence for best fall color.
Dormancy & Winter
December-MarchGolden-brown to rust-colored foliage persists standing through winter; provides winter interest and wildlife shelter
Do not cut back until early spring (late February-March) before new growth emerges. Cutting provides winter burn-off control. Seed heads can be harvested for arrangement.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Rarely damaging in established plantings. Monitor for yellowing. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe.
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Defoliate young plants occasionally. Remove affected shoots. Use Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) if populations are high.
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Usually not serious in well-drained soils. Improve air circulation. Remove severely affected foliage. Avoid overhead watering.
Uses
Native Habitat & Pollinator Support
WildlifeBig bluestem provides critical habitat for native bees, butterflies, and grassland birds. Its seeds feed overwintering birds and small mammals, while the dense growth offers nesting and shelter opportunities. [source]
Erosion Control & Soil Stabilization
HouseholdThe extensive root system (extending 12+ feet deep) binds soil together and prevents erosion on slopes and along waterways. Used in restoration projects for damaged landscapes. [source]
Ornamental Landscaping
HouseholdProvides dramatic vertical interest, striking fall color in burgundy and purple tones, and persistent winter architecture. Works well in prairie gardens, rain gardens, and naturalistic landscapes. [source]
Dried Arrangements & Floral Design
CraftThe distinctive turkey foot seed heads are popular in dried flower arrangements, wreaths, and botanical crafts. They remain attractive and durable for months when dried. [source]
Biofuel & Forage Production
HouseholdBig bluestem is being researched and used as a sustainable biomass crop for bioenergy and cellulosic ethanol production due to its high yield and perennial nature. [source]
Harvest Tips
Seed heads can be harvested in late September through November for dried arrangements once they have fully matured and turned golden-brown. Cut stems with seed heads and dry in a warm, dry location for 2-3 weeks. Foliage does not require harvesting; allow plants to die back naturally for winter interest and spring renewal.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The distinctive three-pronged seed head resembles a wild turkey's foot, earning the common name 'turkey foot grass.' Native Americans and early settlers used the seeds for food and the dried stems for thatching.
- 🌱 Big bluestem's root system is one of the deepest of any temperate grass species, with roots extending 12-15 feet into the soil. This enables survival through severe droughts and helps break up compacted soil.
- 🌱 The plant gets its name 'bluestem' from the blue-purple color that appears on the stem bases in late summer and fall. This coloring intensifies as temperatures cool, creating spectacular autumn displays in native prairie landscapes.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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