Ornamental Grasses Star in Winter Garden
November 30th, 2008Here in the far north the landscape is barren and snow-filled for at least three months of the year (and often longer). Ornamental grasses provide winter interest in the garden. Unlike most other herbaceous plants that die back or become limp piles of “compost” in winter, ornamental grasses maintain their structure. Their leaves and seed heads stay visible above the snow and provide a welcome break from the monotony of the snowy landscape.
Some ornamental grasses stay evergreen throughout the year and others turn brown and grow anew from their roots in spring. Ornamental grasses are members of the Poaeae family and consist of several different species within this family.
Ornamental grasses require very little care once they’re established in the garden. They will grow in almost any type of soil. Most types prefer full sun, but a few varieties tolerate light shade. Ornamental grasses are seldom bothered by pests or diseases.
Be conscious of hardiness zones and plant accordingly when selecting ornamental grasses. Space plants as far apart as their expected height at maturity. They need a lot of room in which to grow and will reward you admirably for providing it for them.
During the growing season, ornamental grasses provide unusual color in the landscape and garden. The foliage can be green, blue, or red. Variegated varieties have red, white, or yellow foliage with ivory or yellow stripes. In autumn these colors deepen to reds, tans and browns.
The flower spikes—called inflorescence—dry well and add height to dried winter arrangements. Flower spikes come in colors like maroons, reds, pinks, silvers, whites, tans, and yellows.
Other than root division every three or four years, Ornamental grasses require very little care. In return, they provide interest in the garden during all seasons.
Especially during the long, dark winter months.


ame way you grow regular, edible cabbages. Plant in full sun in rich, fertile soil. While ornamental cabbages can be started in individual pots and transplanted to the garden, the plants will grow better and produce healthier and larger cabbages if direct seeded in the garden where they are to grow. Plant seeds 6 to 10 weeks before your first anticipated fall frost.






