Northwind Switchgrass

Planting & Care for Switchgrass

Preparation

• Tallest of the switchgrass
• It's an outstanding selection of Panicum.
• The loose and open panicles (pyramidal shaped seed heads) appear in August or September, and remain attractive all winter.
• The fall foliage is a red to orange color, which looks beautiful in the landscape.
• Mature height of 4' is common if grown in a sunny, well drained site.
• This ornamental grass can be used in mass or as a specimen in the landscape.
• Hardiness zone 4.

Opening Plant Material

• Container - Completely saturate all container plants by putting in a larger container of water until stops bubbling, then remove the plant from the container. 
• Scroll down to an orange rectangular box and click on “Handling & Plant Guidelines” for illustration on planting each of these types.

Planting Container

• Dig a hole no deeper than the depth of the container and 6" or more wider on the sides.
• Slide plant from pot by tapping on the bottom of the pot.
• With shovel or knife trim bottom 2" off of the root ball for plants in plastic containers.
• Rotate the plant to the proper position. Never lift or move plants by the tops.
• Place the root ball in the hole.
• Adjust the plant height so the root crown is slightly higher than the ground.
• Place fertilizer packets into the bottom of the hole (if purchased). *Use Our Recommended Fertilizer
• Back-fill the hole with soil, making sure the top of the root ball is visible and slightly higher than the soil around it.
• Firm the soil around the plant. Water well to settle soil around the root ball.
• Water frequently when newly planted. 
  
  

Pruning - After Planting

• Container - Although it is not essential for container plants to be pruned after planting, a light pruning to remove any broken branches during shipment and improve shape will help the looks of your new planting.

Pruning - Through-out the Season

• Cut back late in March if possible before new growth begins.
• See our instructional video on pruning ornamental grasses in the landscape on our “videos” tab.

 Watering - After Planting

• Plants typically take approximately 6 weeks to establish new roots in your soil. During this period, water plants as oft en as every 2-4 days at the start and at least a minimum of once per week.
• Beyond the 6 week establishment period, water once per week, unless rains occur.

Watering - Through-out the Season

• After the first season, plants should only be watered during extended periods without rain.
• How do you know if your plants need water? The easiest way to tell is to touch the soil around the roots. If it is moist, there is no need to water. If it is dry, give it a good soaking with the hose end (no nozzle) watering the soil only, not the leaves.

Go to our "Plant Features & Video Tab" for more information on container plants and how to plant them.