Korean Feather Reed Grass. Clump-forming, upright perennial grass, grown for its tall, fluffy flower heads that are silvery-grey with pinkish-purple tints. Gently arching fountain of grey-green foliage. Height 1m. Spread 90cm. Flowers July to August. Prefers full sun and moist, humus-rich soil. Hardy.
Calamagrostis brachytricha, also known as Korean feather reed grass, is an elegant ornamental grass admired for its feathery plumes and graceful foliage. Perfect for garden borders, containers, and naturalistic planting schemes, it thrives with minimal care while adding year-round interest to your outdoor space. Follow this detailed planting guide to ensure your Calamagrostis brachytricha thrives beautifully.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The ideal time to plant Calamagrostis brachytricha is in spring when the soil begins to warm. This allows the roots to establish robustly before the growing season.
Autumn: Early autumn planting is also suitable, giving the grass time to acclimate before dormancy.
Site Selection
Sunlight: For optimal growth, choose a site with full sun or partial shade. Calamagrostis brachytricha performs well in a variety of light conditions but blooms most prolifically with at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Soil: This grass thrives in well-drained soil with moderate fertility. Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils to prevent root rot. Enhance the soil with organic matter to improve drainage and nutrient availability.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Site: Remove weeds and loosen the soil in the planting area.
Digging the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and of the same depth. This encourages roots to spread easily.
Amend the Soil: Mix in compost to enrich the planting medium. Calamagrostis brachytricha benefits from fertile soil for optimal growth.
Planting: Position the root ball so its top is level with the ground. Backfill the hole gently, firming the soil to eliminate air pockets.
Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and hydrate the roots.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Keep the soil consistently moist during the first year after planting to help Calamagrostis brachytricha establish well. Mature plants are drought-tolerant but benefit from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells.
Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy, as the grass requires minimal moisture.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring as new growth emerges. This will encourage healthy foliage and vibrant plumes.
Mid-Summer: A light application of compost or an organic fertiliser mid-season supports sustained vigour and flowering.
Pruning
Winter Pruning: In late winter or early spring, cut back the dry stems of Calamagrostis brachytricha to ground level before new growth begins. This helps rejuvenate the plant for the growing season.
Deadheading: While not necessary, removing spent flower plumes can maintain a tidier appearance.
Mulching
Spring Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of Calamagrostis brachytricha in spring. Mulch retains soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates temperature.
Winter Mulching: A winter mulch can provide insulation and protect roots from freezing temperatures.
Supporting the Plant
Calamagrostis brachytricha is naturally upright and does not require staking. However, if planted in exposed locations with strong winds, gentle support may help maintain its shape.
Final Tips
Calamagrostis brachytricha is a low-maintenance addition to gardens, providing striking texture and seasonal interest. Its feathery plumes transition from soft pink hues to golden tones, enhancing the beauty of any landscape. By planting it in a sunny to partially shaded location with well-drained soil and following these care tips, your Calamagrostis brachytricha will flourish for years to come.
Incorporate Calamagrostis brachytricha into your garden design for a dynamic and elegant statement, whether as a standalone specimen, part of a mixed border, or in mass plantings. With its versatility and enduring beauty, this ornamental grass is an exceptional choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
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