Feder grass (Stipa) is simply beautiful - the fine, light stalks bring a special elegance into the garden. But every year the question arises: do you have to cut feather grass at all? And if so, when is the best time? Perhaps you cut it in autumn and was surprised why it wasn't really up to the spring. Don't worry, we clarify that! Here you can find out when and how you cut feather grass correctly and which errors you should avoid. Let's go!
Do you have to cut feather grass at all?
In short: yes - but with measure!
Feder grass looks so airy and carefree that you quickly think you don't need a pruning. But over time old stalks accumulate, the grass matted, and new shoots have a hard time to assert themselves. In order for your feather grass to stay healthy and beautiful, a targeted cut is worthwhile. But don't worry: a radical cut -As with pampas grass- is not necessary here! Often it is enough to combine the dry stalks gently or easily shorten. In the following sections you will find out exactly when exactly is the right time and how you can do.
And if you also have other decorative grasses in the garden, you will findIn our article on the pruning in springMore helpful tips!
When is the best time for the pruning?
The ideal time to cut down feather grass is between February and March. It is important that you make the cut before the new shoots sprout. Why? Very easy:
- If you cut too early, frost can weaken the plant.
- Wait too long, risk cutting off the new shoots.
Tipp:If you are not sure whether the right time has come, do the thumb test: rub it slightly on the stalks. If the old stalks loosen slightly, it's time for the cut. If you are still stuck, you'd better wait a bit.
And why not in autumn?
Many make the mistake of brushing feather grass in autumn, but this is not necessary! The dry stalks protect the plant from frost in winter and also offer small insects shelter. And honestly - does feather grass with its filigree, glittering stalks look just fantastic?
How do you cut feather grass correctly?
A strong pruning is not necessary for feather grass - it is sufficient to gently get the plant into shape. So it is best to proceed:
- Step 1:Choose a frost -free, dry day for the pruning.
- Step 2:Cut the stalks back to 10 to 15 cm above the floor.
- Step 3:If the stalks are not dried up very much, it is often enough to cease them carefully with the fingers or a rake - as if they were uninforming a wild mane.
- Step 4:Remove dead material so that the plant gets air and new shoots can develop better.
Danger:Wear gloves! The stalks of feather grass can be quite sharp and cause small cuts on the fingers.
@dasmasivholzhausFedegras care/ pruning in February#garten work #garten #garten ideas #garten tips #horticulture #garten design #garten maintenance ♬ Original sound - Sabrina
Why doesn't the feather grass do it after the pruning?
If your feather grass does not grow as usual after the cut, this can be due to several factors. Here are the most common reasons:
- Too deep cut:If the plant was radically shortened to just above the ground, it lacks the energy for new shoots. Leave at least 10 cm!
- Wrong time:A cut in winter or frost can weaken the plant. It is best to cut only in spring if no strong frosts are no longer expected.
- Lack of nutrients:After the pruning, feather grass needs a small start -up aid. An organic fertilizer or a thin layer of compost supplies it with new strength.
- Grew to poet:Malm matters can block the new shoot. Here a gentle pulling apart or a slight cut -in cut helps.
What can you do?
If your feather grass does not strive despite these measures, there are some things you can try:
- Split:If the plant does not grow enough, just share it. Take part of the root with a spade and plant it in another place. This helps to promote growth!
- Fertilize:Give the plant a little fertilizer after the cut so that it gets the necessary nutrients. An organic fertilizer or compost are ideal for this.
- Pour:Make sure that your feather grass has enough water, especially after the pruning. Pour regularly, but not too much.
- Sunshine:Make sure the plant receives enough sunlight. A shady location can inhibit growth. Perhaps a sunnier place is more suitable.
Now you know how and when you can cut your feather grass back properly so that it grows again nicely. Remember not to cut too early and handle the stalks carefully. With these tips you can make sure that your feather grass stays healthy and blooms again in full splendor in spring.
