Ornamental grasses add depth, color, and tons of texture to gardens and landscaping. For years I have used them to create privacy in my backyard, and the best part is: you can harvest your grasses come fall! Ornamental grasses do grow rapidly, however, and you’ll definitely have to divide them at some point, due to damages during the winter or other reasons. Here’s how I do it!
Before you divide your grasses, it’s important to determine WHEN the best time to divide the grass is. Never divide grasses outside of their growth season. Dividing should ALWAYS be done inside a grow season.
Decide to divide grasses on a cloudy or rainy day. It’s important that the cut grass stalks do not dry out or become brittle. If you can, use something like a plastic sheet or burlap sack to protect grasses.
Dig a “trench” around the grasses you wish to divide and make sure that this exposes the root system. Next, use a shovel to dig out the entire root ball
Depending on the size of the grass clump you are attempting to divide, it can sometimes be done just with your hands. If working with a larger clump, a sharp shovel does best to break apart the clumps. Break apart the roots and the grass clump into the size of your desired grasses.
You can replant the parent grass, or break it up into smaller clumps. It’s entirely up to you and your landscaping desires.
Once the grass (and the root ball) have been removed from the parent, they can be easily replanted. Just make sure you water immediately after you replant!
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