Lesser Quaking Grass. Perennial grass with grey-green leaves. Flowerheads are a mass of tiny nodding lockets on wiry stems, purple tinted at first, later becoming straw coloured. Height 90cm. Spread 30cm. Flowers April to July. Full sun/partial shade, well drained soil. Hardy.
Briza media, also known as Lesser Quaking Grass, is a beautiful perennial grass that adds texture and movement to any garden. Known for its delicate, nodding flowerheads and grey-green foliage, this hardy plant thrives in well-drained soil and is ideal for gardens that receive full sun to partial shade. This guide provides everything you need to know to ensure your Briza media thrives in your garden.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The optimal time to plant Briza media is in spring, once the soil has warmed up and the risk of frost has passed. Planting at this time gives the roots a chance to establish before the blooming season begins, ensuring healthy growth and vibrant flowering.
Autumn: Alternatively, you can plant Briza media in early autumn. This allows the plant to settle in and prepare for winter dormancy, leading to better growth in the following spring.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Briza media thrives in full sun to partial shade. For best results, choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. If your garden is in a hotter area, partial shade can help protect the plant from excessive heat, especially during the summer months.
Soil: Briza media prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Ensure the soil drains well to prevent root rot. Adding organic matter like compost can help improve soil structure and drainage, promoting healthier growth for this perennial grass.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of your Briza media plant. This will provide ample space for the roots to spread out and establish themselves.
Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil to enhance its fertility and drainage. Briza media grows best in fertile, well-drained soil, which encourages strong, healthy growth and a beautiful display of nodding flowerheads.
Planting: Place the plant in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it down to remove any air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water the Briza media thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and establish the roots. Ensure the area drains well to avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Briza media is relatively drought-tolerant once established. During dry spells, water the plant deeply, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.
Dormant Season: During the dormant season, reduce watering significantly. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry, as Briza media requires minimal moisture during this time.
Feeding
Spring: In early spring, apply a balanced fertiliser to give Briza media a strong start for the growing season. This will promote vigorous growth and ensure abundant flowering later in the year.
Mid-Summer: A light feeding during the growing season can help sustain the plant’s health and vitality, supporting continued flowering and strong foliage.
Pruning
Deadheading: Regularly remove any spent flowers from Briza media to prolong the blooming period and keep the plant looking tidy. Deadheading also encourages new flowerheads to develop.
Autumn Pruning: After the flowering season, cut back the foliage to ground level. This prepares Briza media for winter dormancy and encourages fresh growth in the following spring.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of Briza media in spring to help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulches like bark chips or compost work best.
Winter: Adding a layer of mulch in winter can protect the roots from frost and extreme temperatures, ensuring that Briza media survives until the next growing season.
Supporting the Plant
Staking: Briza media is an ornamental grass with wiry stems that rarely require staking. However, if grown in a particularly windy location, consider staking to prevent the plant from toppling over. Its delicate flowerheads can sway gracefully, but support may be necessary in gusty conditions.
Final Tips
Briza media, or Lesser Quaking Grass, is a low-maintenance perennial that brings a unique charm to your garden. With its graceful, nodding flowerheads and airy appearance, this plant is perfect for adding texture to borders, meadows, or wildflower gardens. By planting it in well-drained soil, providing adequate sunlight, and following the care instructions outlined above, you can enjoy the beauty of Briza media year after year. Incorporate this hardy and striking grass into your landscape for a delightful visual effect from spring to autumn!
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Cath C. (verified owner) –
Plants arrived carefully packaged. Usual excellent quality which I have come to expect from Procters.
jonathan taylor (verified owner) –
Very strong and healthy plants