Pampas Grass Planting Instructions

Feathery blooms of Pampas grass

Pampas grass (Cortaderia Selloana) is a graceful plant that adds a feeling of the tropics when planted in your yard. The plant, native to Argentina and southern Brazil, was imported to the United States in 1848, according to North Carolina State University's Department of Horticultural Science. This grass has showy, reed-like leaves and tall bloom spikes with feathery plumes that usually are white, but pink varieties also exist. Pampas grass grows well along temperate coastal areas and does not grow well in areas where the temperature drops below freezing for extended periods.

Things You'll Need

• Pampas grass
• Shovel
• Compost
• Water
• Garden trowel
• Mulch

Instructions

1. Choose an area in the yard that receives full sun, as the plant will not do well in shaded areas. Leave an adequate amount of space around the plant, as it will spread quickly. Pampas grass grows best in sandy and loamy soils.

2. Dig the planting hole 12 inches to 18 inches deep and 15 inches wide to accommodate plants grown in gallon containers. The crown of the plant should be at ground level when set into the planting hole. Prepare the soil well, working in organic compost or peat moss to assure proper drainage.

3. Soak the plant thoroughly with water before removing it from the container. This plant tends to have roots that are tough and become interwoven in containers. Cut through the roots with a garden trowel to spread the roots outward on all sides.

4. Place the plant into the planting hole, spreading the roots outward. Keep the plant straight, with its most attractive side facing outward.

5. Water the plant thoroughly and fill in around the plant with soil. Tamp the soil firmly around the plant. Water the plant and cover the area around it with mulch. Water the Pampas grass regularly for the first few weeks. Water the plant during dry times of the year.

Tips & Warnings

• Pampas grass may not bloom the first year after planting.

• Cut the bloom spikes in the fall for drying. Hang the spikes upside down in the garage or basement until dry.

• Pampas grass grows well in containers. In less temperate climates, move the plant indoors to avoid freezing.

• Dig up established plants and divide for planting in other areas.

• The grass blades of Pampas grass are very sharp, so keep them clear of walkways and entrances.

• The plants become very large, so avoid planting them at the entrance of driveways.

References

• North Carolina State University: Ornamental Grasses for North Carolina
• University of Illinois Extension: Types of Ornamental Grasses
• University of Florida: Cortaderia Selloana Pampas Grass

Resources

• University of Georgia: Ornamental Grasses for Georgia Gardens