How to Prune Zebra Grass

Zebra grass is a part of the ornamental grass category, which can be planted in a variety of landscapes and endures extreme heat or cold in different environments. Zebra grass grows during the early spring, which is the ideal time to prune the grass to remove dead leaves and stems in order to stimulate new growth. Zebra grass requires little maintenance because it thrives best with little water and its leaves turn a bright yellow color when it is time to prune them from the plant.

Things You'll Need

• Pruning shears
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Measuring tape
• Yard waste bag

Instructions

1. Disinfect the pruning shears with isopropyl alcohol, and rinse the blades with hot water to remove the remaining cleaning solution.

2. Measure the zebra grass from the ground up with the measuring tape, and clip a few stalks to indicate where to begin pruning.

3. Straighten out the zebra grass, and cut a straight, clean line across the 12-inch mark to prune the plant. Cut the stalks two to three at a time for a clean cut, as jagged cuts can damage the plant's stalk.

4. Pick up the removed stalks and discard them in the yard waste bag.

References

• Springhill Nursery: Zebra Grass
• "The Garden Primer"; Barbara Damrosch; February 2008;
• University of Florida Extension: Considerations for Selection and Use of Ornamental Grasses; Mack Thetford;