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

Plant Selection

Ornamental grasses are best categorized by mature size. Matching the dimensions of plants to their intended site is important for creating proper appeal. Grasses can also be grouped by use, including those best for water conserving landscapes, naturalized plantings, and winter beauty. Some discussion will also be given to tender perennial grasses that can be grown as annuals in Idaho.

Many excellent web sites are available describing ornamental grasses and their uses. Two of the best are a Colorado State University site, which includes some excellent pictures: http://www.coopext.colostate.edu/4DMG/Lawns/ornament.htm and a private site constructed for Bluestem Nursery by Jim Brockmeyer, that contains excellent descriptions, good pictures, and a very useful comparison chart: http://www.bluestem.ca/grass-comparison-chart.htm

The University of Tennessee has published an excellent site discussing principles of landscaping with ornamental grasses, as well as the best uses for specific grasses: http://www.utextension.utk.edu/publications/pbfiles/PB1626.pdf#search.

Zebra Grass is a variety of Miscanthus sinensis
Photo courtesy of Judy Sedbrook

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