How to Grow Ornamental Grasses and Ground Covers
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Ornamental Grasses and Ground Covers
Poaceae (grasses) and various ground cover families
grassOrnamental grasses and ground covers are diverse groups of plants used to create texture, movement, and erosion control in landscapes. Grasses range from delicate fine-textured varieties to bold architectural specimens, while ground covers provide low-growing alternatives to traditional lawn grass. Both categories offer year-round interest, wildlife habitat, and low-maintenance solutions for various garden conditions.
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Example Ornamental Grasses and Ground Covers timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Ornamental Grasses and Ground Covers
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 Ornamental Grasses and Ground Covers
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Varies by species; cool-season grasses thrive in zones 3-7, warm-season grasses in zones 5-10, and ground covers range across all zones depending on type
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Get my Ornamental Grasses and Ground Covers timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling/Establishment
2-4 weeks for seed germination; 3-6 months for establishmentSmall shoots emerge with fine, delicate foliage. Root system developing underground.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Thin seedlings to appropriate spacing. Protect from heavy foot traffic.
Vegetative Growth
Spring through early summer (3-4 months)Plant develops multiple shoots and expands horizontally. Foliage becomes fuller and denser. Root system deepens.
Water during dry spells. Apply light fertilizer in spring if needed. Divide spreading ground covers if desired. Mulch around base.
Flowering/Inflorescence
Late summer through fall (2-3 months)Ornamental grasses produce distinctive seed heads and flower plumes in various colors (tan, gold, pink, purple). Ground covers may flower depending on species.
Appreciate the aesthetic value; do not deadhead if you want seeds. Flowering indicates plant maturity. Remove invasive seeding if necessary.
Dormancy/Winter Color
Fall through early spring (4-5 months)Cool-season grasses may turn golden, bronze, or reddish. Warm-season grasses dry down completely. Seed heads persist and become architectural features.
Do not cut back cool-season grasses; dormant grasses provide winter structure and wildlife shelter. Cut warm-season grasses in late winter before spring growth.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Monitor for damage; remove by hand; use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) if severe; mow affected areas
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Spray with insecticidal soap; ensure adequate watering; encourage natural predators; avoid excessive nitrogen
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; cut back dead material; improve air circulation
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Prune heavily infested stems; spray with horticultural oil in early season; encourage predatory insects
Uses
Erosion Control & Slope Stabilization
HouseholdOrnamental grasses and ground covers establish deep root systems that stabilize soil, reduce runoff, and prevent erosion on slopes and banks. Their dense coverage quickly stabilizes exposed areas. [source]
Native Habitat & Pollinator Support
WildlifeMany ornamental grasses and ground covers provide food and shelter for birds, insects, and other wildlife. Native species support local ecosystems and offer sustainable landscaping benefits. [source]
Ornamental Arrangements & Dried Flowers
CraftOrnamental grass seed heads and plumes are prized for fresh and dried floral arrangements, adding texture, movement, and elegance to indoor displays. [source]
Low-Maintenance Landscaping
HouseholdOnce established, most ornamental grasses and ground covers require minimal water, fertilizer, and pest management compared to traditional lawn grass, reducing landscape maintenance time and resources. [source]
Edible & Medicinal Species
CulinarySome grass and ground cover species (such as wheatgrass, lemongrass, and certain herbs used as ground covers) have culinary and medicinal applications including juices, teas, and traditional remedies. [source]
Harvest Tips
Ornamental grasses and ground covers are not harvested for food. Cut back warm-season grasses in late winter (February-March) before new growth emerges, cutting to 3-4 inches. Leave cool-season grasses uncut to enjoy winter color. Divide congested clumps in spring (cool-season) or late spring (warm-season). Collect seed heads for arrangements before they scatter.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Ornamental grasses move and dance in the slightest breeze, creating living sculpture that changes throughout the day and seasons.
- 🌱 Some ornamental grasses can live and thrive for 20-30+ years with minimal care, making them incredibly long-lived landscape investments.
- 🌱 Certain ground covers like creeping thyme and moss grow well between pavers and stepping stones, creating beautiful permeable pathways that withstand foot traffic.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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