ANNUALS
Introduction
Plant Selection
Hardy, Semi-hardy, Tender 

Heat and Drought Tolerant
Shade Tolerant Annuals
Fragrant Annuals
Ornamental Foliage
Climbing Annuals
Hanging Baskets
Cut Flowers
Planting
Starting Plants
Maintenance
Insects Problems
Disease Problems

PERENNIALS
Introduction
Plant Selection
Plant Dimension Characteristics
Specific Site Conditions
Classification by Bloom Periods
Perennials That Attract Wildlife
Planting
Starting Plants
Care and Maintenance

BULB FLOWERS
Introduction
Plant Selection
Planting Bulbs
Purchasing Bulbs
Care & Maintenance

ORNAMENTAL GRASSES
Introduction
Plant Selection
Mature Size
Grasses for Specific Uses
Planting Ornamental Grasses
Obtaining Plants
Care & Maintenance

CONTAINER GARDENING
Introduction
Container Selection
Soil Mixes
Container Placement
Plant Selection
Plant Care

Planting Ornamental Grasses

Revennae grass serves the role of pampas grass in cold climates
Photo courtesy of Judy Sedbrook

Site Selection and Preparation

As with any perennial, proper site selection is critical for success with ornamental grasses. Soil preparation in a perennial bed is completed only one time, just prior to planting and must be done properly. First, kill and remove any persistent weeds, especially grasses. Such weeds are difficult to manage once the beds are planted. This may take several months and multiple applications of a systemic herbicide. Except in native naturalized plantings, amend the soil by adding 2-3 inches of well-aged compost or manure. This is especially important in the arid, calcareous soils of southern Idaho. Add the equivalent of 3 lb/1000 sq. ft. of nitrogen in the form of a complete fertilizer, such as 5-10-5.

After amendments are added, the soil should be tilled to a depth of at least 8 inches, leveled, and smoothed (but not packed). Just prior too or after planting, it is a good idea to add two or three inches of mulch (wood chips, bark, etc.) to the soil surface. It may also pay dividends to place some type of edging or border around the bed to slow encroachment of grass or other weeds.

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