How to Grow Reed Canary Grass
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Reed Canary Grass
Phalaris arundinacea
grassReed canary grass is a tall, robust perennial grass native to wetlands and riparian zones across the Northern Hemisphere. It is valued for erosion control, wildlife habitat, and biomass production, though it can become invasive in some regions. The plant produces dense foliage and distinctive seed heads, making it useful for both ecological restoration and agricultural applications.
When should you plant Reed Canary Grass in your zone?
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Example Reed Canary Grass timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Reed Canary 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 Reed Canary Grass
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Reed Canary Grass dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-8; extremely cold-hardy and adaptable to cool and temperate regions
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Germination & Seedling
2-4 weeksSeeds germinate in 7-14 days under moist conditions; seedlings develop fine, delicate leaves and shallow root systems
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; thin seedlings to proper spacing; protect from competition and foot traffic
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksPlants develop dense, upright tillers with long, narrow leaves; rhizomatous root system expands rapidly, creating dense clumps or stands
Maintain consistent moisture during establishment; mow or manage competing vegetation; fertilize in spring if needed for vigor
Elongation & Flowering
4-6 weeksCulms (stems) elongate rapidly to 3-6 feet tall; distinctive panicle seed heads emerge, initially green then turning tan or reddish
Do not mow during this stage if seed production is desired; fertilize after flowering begins if vigor is inadequate
Seed Development & Maturation
3-4 weeksSeed heads mature and harden; seeds transition from green to brown/tan; foliage may senesce slightly; plants reach full height
Refrain from harvesting or disturbance if seed dispersal is desired; monitor for any pest activity; seeds are viable when heads turn golden-brown
Dormancy & Winter
4-6 monthsAbove-ground growth ceases and foliage browns; rhizomes remain viable underground, overwintering reliably even in extreme cold
Leave standing biomass in place for wildlife habitat if not harvesting; spring green-up begins once soil temperature exceeds 40°F
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Monitor for defoliation; employ natural predators; apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) if severe
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Scout regularly; manage with organic insecticides only if populations cause significant damage
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Select disease-resistant cultivars; ensure adequate air circulation; fungicides rarely necessary
Uses
Wetland Habitat & Erosion Control
WildlifeReed canary grass is widely used for riparian buffer establishment, streambank stabilization, and wetland creation. Its dense root systems prevent erosion and trap sediment, while dense foliage provides cover and nesting habitat for waterfowl and marsh birds. [source]
Biomass & Biofuel Production
HouseholdThe grass produces substantial dry biomass that can be harvested as a renewable energy feedstock. It is being investigated as a sustainable alternative for heating, biogas, and biochemical production. [source]
Thatching & Fiber Arts
CraftReed canary grass stems are used traditionally for thatching roofs and crafting woven baskets and other fiber products. The hollow, sturdy culms are well-suited to these applications. [source]
Phytoremediation
MedicinalReed canary grass accumulates heavy metals and excess nutrients from contaminated soils and wastewater, making it valuable for ecological restoration of degraded sites. The plant is often used in constructed wetlands for water treatment. [source]
Forage for Livestock
WildlifeIn some regions, reed canary grass is cultivated as a productive forage crop for cattle and sheep, particularly in wet pastures where other grasses struggle. Its palatability varies by cultivar and season. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest seed heads in late summer or early fall when fully mature and brown; cut at base of panicle with sickle or combine harvester; dry indoors if immediate threshing is not possible; for biomass, harvest in fall after senescence for maximum yield and nutrient translocation; handle carefully as rhizomes spread rapidly if fragments are distributed
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Reed canary grass is one of the most widespread grass species in the Northern Hemisphere and has become invasive in some wetlands, outcompeting native wetland plants due to its aggressive rhizomatous growth and allelopathic compounds.
- 🌱 Low-alkaloid cultivars (such as 'Vernal' and 'Venture') were developed to reduce toxic compounds that can cause tremors in livestock, making the grass safer for grazing.
- 🌱 The plant's deep rhizome system can extend 3+ feet into the soil, allowing it to access water and nutrients far below the surface and making it nearly impossible to eradicate once established.
Gardening Terms
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