How to Grow Decorative Grasses
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Decorative Grasses
Poaceae family (various genera)
grassDecorative grasses are ornamental plants prized for their elegant foliage, graceful movement, and striking seed heads. They range from compact clumping varieties to tall, flowing specimens and add texture, structure, and visual interest to landscapes year-round. These low-maintenance plants are drought-tolerant once established and provide habitat for wildlife.
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Example Decorative Grasses timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Decorative Grasses
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 Decorative Grasses
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Most decorative grasses thrive in zones 4-9, though cold-hardy varieties grow in zones 3 and warm-season grasses in zones 10
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Get my Decorative Grasses timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
6-8 weeksYoung plants develop root systems and initial foliage shoots
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist; mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds; avoid fertilizing
Vegetative Growth
4-6 monthsClumps expand with increasing leaf production and spreading root systems
Reduce watering frequency as roots deepen; remove any dead foliage; stake tall varieties if exposed to wind
Flowering & Seed Head Formation
4-8 weeksPlants produce feathery, silky, or plume-like inflorescences; seed heads emerge above foliage
Allow seed heads to develop for ornamental value; do not deadhead unless self-seeding is a concern; enjoy movement in wind
Dormancy
3-5 months (November-March in temperate zones)Foliage dries, turns golden, tan, or burgundy; plant dies back to crown in winter
Cut back to 3-4 inches in late winter (February-March) before new growth emerges; burn off in controlled manner or remove by hand/machine; avoid cutting in fall to preserve winter interest
Regrowth
3-4 weeks until full foliageFresh green shoots emerge from crown as temperatures warm
Ensure old growth has been cleared for new shoots to emerge; minimal care needed; resume watering in drought periods
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water stream; use insecticidal soap if severe; introduce natural predators like ladybugs
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Improve air circulation; remove infected foliage; apply fungicide if widespread; avoid overhead watering
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Increase humidity by misting; use horticultural oil or neem oil; maintain adequate water during hot, dry periods
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Prune and remove heavily infested stems; apply horticultural oil in early spring or fall
Uses
Grain production (select varieties)
CulinarySome ornamental grass species produce edible grains traditionally used as staple carbohydrates. Varieties like wheat grass and certain bamboo shoots are harvested for nutritional content. [source]
Dried arrangements and floral design
HouseholdDecorative grass seed heads are prized by florists and craft enthusiasts for dried bouquets, wreaths, and home décor. Their natural beauty, movement, and longevity make them ideal for long-lasting arrangements. [source]
Habitat and food source for birds and pollinators
WildlifeSeed heads provide food for finches, sparrows, and other seed-eating birds. The dense clumps offer shelter for small mammals and ground-nesting birds. [source]
Landscape structure and seasonal interest
HouseholdDecorative grasses provide year-round visual interest with movement in wind, changing foliage colors, and striking winter silhouettes. They work well in modern, naturalistic, and native plant gardens. [source]
Erosion control and soil stabilization
HouseholdDense root systems of ornamental grasses stabilize soil on slopes and prevent erosion while requiring minimal maintenance. They are excellent choices for difficult sites and green infrastructure projects. [source]
Harvest Tips
Decorative grasses are not harvested for food but rather enjoyed for ornamental value. To collect seed heads for dried arrangements: cut stems once seed heads fully mature and dry (late summer through fall), bundle loosely, and hang upside down in a warm, dry location for 2-3 weeks. Leave seed heads on the plant through winter for wildlife interest and garden structure.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Decorative grasses make up about 6,000 species worldwide and are among the fastest-growing plants on Earth; some bamboo species can grow over 3 feet per day.
- 🌱 The movement and sound of ornamental grasses in wind is called 'susurration' and is valued in garden design for adding dynamic sensory experience to landscapes.
- 🌱 Many ornamental grasses are native to prairies and grasslands and require little water, fertilizer, or pesticides, making them ideal for sustainable, low-input landscaping.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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