How to Prune Fakahatchee Grass

Fakahatchee grass, once grown only in South Florida, is spreading across the nation due to the popularity of its showy, long, green leaves. If left alone, a clump of Fakahatchee grass will grow to 6 to 8 feet high. Homeowners who want a smaller and decorative clump of Fakahatchee grass may want to prune or cut back their grass once a year.

Things You'll Need

• Shears Lawn bag

Instructions

1. Determine what time of year is best for you to trim your Fakahatchee grass. Pick a specific date and cut your Fakahatchee on that day each year. Most people choose the dormant stage, right after the first frost or in early March.

2. Prune your Fakahatchee grass about 6 inches from the ground. The cut can be flat all around, or you can round the cut, making the leftover grass more decorative (it will grow back).

3. Remove the grass cuttings and place them in a lawn bag. Most municipalities do not allow residents to throw away grass cuttings in a standard trash can. You can also use these cuttings as mulch or compost.

4. Repeat the pruning at the same time each year. It takes about 1 to 2 months for the grass to grow back, depending on the amount of rain.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure your shears are sharp before you use them for pruning. Dull shears can damage the cut grass, leaving it open to disease.