Pampas grass

I have a nice stand of the Pampas, but no furry things on top for 5 yrs old. Last year finally they came up and looked beautiful. Then over the summer, every one bent over. None so far this year. Is there something I can do?

Might need to be divided

Pampas grass needs to be cut back really hard each year. Have been pruning your plants in the spring? In areas with no laws against open fires or burn bans, stands of pampas grass away from structures are burned to the ground each year. My neighbor has a stand about 40 feet long that he burns back every year right after the last frost/freeze date. They come bounding back with full blooms and reach 7 or 8 feet tall.


http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/pampas-grass/growing-pampas-grass.htm

I ditto Themoon, I burn mine back too, it is easier than being cut to threads by the vicious sharp and deadly pointed leaf that just loves to get caught close to your face as you try to hack away at the bottom of the plant. IF you do get to burn your Grass, have a hosepipe at hand AND switched on as this grass when dried out in winter / early spring has a habit of going up into TALL flames like a flash fire, HOWEVER< after about 2 minutes, the fire is all over and the top DEAD GROWTH is gone so fast, IF you want to CUT the plant back, go to the ARMY for some protective clothing ha, ha, ha, just kidding, "well NOT".

Hope this gives you ideas, just make sure ALL precautions are in place first.
Best of luck. WeeNel.

Yup Nel, it can be quite impressive when it catches fire....My neighbor uses the garden hose to wet down the lawn about 10 feet in all directions before he sets fire, and he only does 1 plant at a time.....a lesson he learned the hard way...no injury or damage but it scared him silly when it all caught at once.....a fast hot 5minute fire.

Thanks for the suggestions. I noticed that here in Knoxville, it is about 50/50 whether to cut back or not. Never noticed anyone burning. Since K-ville has a burn ban in the city, I may not burn, but will certainly arm myself with all sorts of protective gear to cut it way, way down. You have really helped me.

Some weedeaters have a blade attachment for them. That is what my husband uses to cut back all the ornamental grasses in my garden. That way you don't have to get as up close and personal with the plants.

Happy to help.
Moon

I am new to this site. My husband and I are moving to Foley, Al.I want palm trees, banana trees, pampas grass, and anything tropical like. I welcome any and all suggestions. We are living in NWArkansas at this time. Will be in Foley hopefully in 2 weeks. I do not know about root systems for palm trees or such. I want a lemon tree, too.
Thank you
Pepperwillie

Welcome to DG. I found some info on some of the "tropical style" plants that would be cold hardy in Zone 8b, where Foley is. I hope they are useful to you.

http://www.sunpalmtrees.com/

http://www.thriftyfun.com/Growing-Citrus-Trees.html

http://www.justfruitsandexotics.com/Citrus.htm

http://www.justfruitsandexotics.com/Bananas.htm

Hi pepperwillie.

Do not grow pampas grass. It is a vicious weed, rampant, aggressive, reseeds...
There are many nicer plants that can have a similar effect without having to call out the troops for regular maintenance. (Been there, done that)

For the mid sized arching grass effect look into things like Miscanthus (there are many varieties)
There are several grasses native to N. America that are also better choices than pampas grass.
And almost-grass like plants like Phormium, Dietes (I like D. bicolor), and many others.

YEA! My pampas grass finally has plumes growing; I guess since our K'ville weather has been much cooler than previous years, it has taken longer for the plumes to come out. There is probably 15-20 plumes. How long they will remain upright is anyone's guess. Thanks for all the advice.