How to Grow Native Grasses and Groundcovers
Native Grasses and Groundcovers
Various species (regional)
grassNative grasses and groundcovers are plants naturally occurring in specific regions that provide ecological benefits, erosion control, and aesthetic appeal while requiring minimal maintenance once established. These plants are adapted to local climate, soil, and water conditions, making them ideal for sustainable landscaping. They support native wildlife, sequester carbon, and reduce the need for fertilizers and pesticides.
When should you plant Native Grasses and Groundcovers in your zone?
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Example Native Grasses and Groundcovers timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Native Grasses and Groundcovers
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 Native Grasses and Groundcovers
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Native Grasses and Groundcovers dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Varies by species and region; select native plants suited to your specific USDA zone and local ecoregion
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Get my Native Grasses and Groundcovers timeline →Growth Stages
Seed germination and emergence
2-4 weeksSeeds germinate and tiny shoots emerge from soil; very delicate seedlings with minimal above-ground growth
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; protect seedlings from foot traffic and heavy rain impact; prevent weed competition by removing competing plants
Establishment (Year 1)
6-8 weeks post-emergenceSeedlings develop true leaves and root systems; visible growth in height and width; groundcovers begin spreading; grasses develop tillers
Water deeply 1-2 times weekly; remove competing weeds by hand or targeted removal; no fertilizer needed; light mowing or cutting back encourages branching in some species
Root development (Year 1-2)
Several months to one yearDeep root systems establish below ground; above-ground growth slows but becomes more vigorous; plants become more drought-tolerant
Reduce watering frequency as root systems deepen; apply native mulch to suppress weeds; mow or cut back if needed to encourage density; no fertilizer needed
Vegetative maturation (Year 2-3)
1-2 yearsFull coverage achieved; plants reach mature height and spread; groundcovers form dense mats; grasses develop robust clumps
Establish maintenance schedule: spring burn or mow, late-season cut-back, or dormant-season management depending on species; minimal water; no fertilizer needed
Flowering and ecological function (Year 3+)
Ongoing; summer through fall depending on speciesPlants flower and set seed; full ecological benefit realized with native pollinator and wildlife attraction; self-seeding occurs in suitable conditions
Allow seed production; manage burn/mowing cycle (typically annual or biennial); enjoy wildlife habitat benefits; minimal intervention needed; allow seed to disperse naturally
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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and
Generally manageable in diverse native plantings; allow natural predators (birds, parasitic wasps); avoid broad-spectrum insecticides that harm beneficial insects
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Hand-pick in early morning; encourage native predators; avoid Japanese beetle traps near plantings; generally less damaging to native grasses than turf
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and
Improve drainage; remove dense mulch piles; encourage ground beetles and toads; hand-pick in wet conditions if populations are high
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Ensure proper air circulation through spacing and maintenance; avoid overhead watering; allow natural disease suppression through diverse plantings
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Hand-removal; spot-treat with targeted herbicides if necessary; dense native planting suppresses weed establishment; early detection and removal critical
Uses
Erosion control and soil stabilization
EcologicalDeep root systems of native grasses prevent soil erosion on slopes, along waterways, and in disturbed areas. Groundcovers stabilize slopes and prevent washout while improving soil structure. [source]
Wildlife habitat and pollinator support
WildlifeNative grasses provide nesting material, seed food, and shelter for birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects. Associated wildflowers support pollinators and native fauna. [source]
Carbon sequestration and climate resilience
EcologicalNative grasslands sequester significant carbon in deep soil systems and are highly resilient to drought, flooding, and temperature extremes compared to non-native plantings. [source]
Low-maintenance landscaping
HouseholdOnce established, native grasses and groundcovers require minimal water, fertilizer, or pesticide inputs, reducing maintenance labor and costs while supporting ecosystem health. [source]
Ornamental and decorative applications
CraftDried native grasses and seed heads provide striking visual interest in dried arrangements, landscape design, and seasonal decoration. Many cultivars offer varied colors and textures. [source]
Harvest Tips
Native grasses and groundcovers are not typically harvested for food; however, seed can be collected for propagation: allow seeds to fully mature and dry on plant (late summer through fall); shake seed heads into bags; clean and store in cool, dry conditions; seeds from some species require cold stratification before sowing. For floral arrangements, cut grass stems in mid-late summer when fully emerged but before dormancy.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Prairie and grassland soils can be 6-12 feet deep with root systems representing up to 80% of total plant biomass—far deeper than conventional turfgrass roots, which rarely exceed 6 inches.
- 🌱 A single native grass plant can produce thousands of seeds, and once established, these plantings can self-sustain through natural seed dispersal and regeneration for decades without replanting.
- 🌱 Native groundcovers like creeping phlox and sedums require 70-90% less water than conventional groundcovers and turfgrass, making them ideal for water-conservation landscapes in arid and semi-arid regions.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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