Create a Lush Corner of Ornamental Grasses with This Simple Garden Plan

2015-06-09
Create a Lush Corner of Ornamental Grasses with This Simple Garden Plan

If you have yet to try an ornamental grass garden layout, or you think one type of ornamental grass looks much like any other grass, this corner of grasses garden plan will show you just how majestic and varied they can be. They're also super low-maintenance, so you can plant them and pretty much forget them.

The lush fountains of foliage are lovely in spring and summer, but ornamental grasses are nothing short of spectacular in fall, when their feathery seed heads sway in the breeze. The buff-colored plumes endure into winter, too, keeping the garden attractive when all else has gone dormant.

Plants for the Corner of Grasses Garden Plan

This garden plan combines several types of ornamental grasses for a pleasing mix of textures, colors, and heights. For contrast, this design also includes a few flowering perennials, which also require very little care and will thrive in a full sun spot.

If you can't find the exact cultivars listed above, substitute with another plant type with similar colors, shapes, and sizes.

Some plants can become overly aggressive and spread out of control in certain climates, so check which species are considered invasive before going ahead with your ornamental grass garden layout. For example, Miscanthus can become weedy in some areas, but this is usually less problematic when planting certain cultivars, such as 'Graziella' that's listed in this plan.

Get the Free Corner of Grasses Garden Plan

This garden design includes an illustrated version of the planted garden, a detailed layout diagram, a list of plants for the garden as shown, and complete instructions for installing the garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why should you plant ornamental grasses?

    Ornamental grasses provide texture, height, and color that complement almost any type of garden. Many of these grasses are perennials that come back every year and don't require much care.

  • When should you cut back ornamental grasses?

    You should cut back ornamental grass in late winter or early spring. This will allow you to enjoy the seed heads during winter before cutting back to make way for new growth.

  • Do ornamental grasses stay green all year?

    Some varieties of ornamental grasses, like sedge, are evergreen and remain green all year. Others will go dormant during the winter months and typically turn brown. It depends on the type of grass and your climate.

Related Article

How to Plant and Grow Rose of Jericho

How to Plant and Grow Rose of Jericho

Rose of Jericho is a unique houseplant that can survive with minimal water, making it a great option for travelers and forgetful gardeners.
21 Adorably Petite Plants for Fairy Gardens

21 Adorably Petite Plants for Fairy Gardens

Color is always nice, but scale is everything when choosing miniature garden plants. Peruse our favorite picks for fairy gardens and terrariums.
13 Colorful Nectar Plants for Pollinators

13 Colorful Nectar Plants for Pollinators

Create a gorgeous, pollinator-friendly garden by including these nectar-rich plants.
Is Coleus a Perennial or Annual? Here's How to Grow It Both Ways

Is Coleus a Perennial or Annual? Here's How to Grow It Both Ways

Is coleus a perennial that comes back every year? That depends on where you live and how you care for it. Use these tips to enjoy coleus as a colorful perennial or annual plant.
How to Plant and Grow Ranunculus

How to Plant and Grow Ranunculus

Ranunculus are favorite flowers for weddings, arrangements, and gardens. Here's how to plant and grow ranunculus.
How to Plant and Grow Glossy Abelia

How to Plant and Grow Glossy Abelia

This guide on how to grow glossy abelia includes essential planting and care tips such watering, fertilizing, and pruning needs. You'll also find popular types of abelia to grow and pretty companion plants for this flowering shrub.
Hydrangeas Not Blooming? 7 Reasons Why and How to Fix the Problem

Hydrangeas Not Blooming? 7 Reasons Why and How to Fix the Problem

Hydrangeas not blooming can be a frustrating problem for gardeners. These straightforward tips will promote tons of long-lasting flowers.
10 Best Sweet Potato Companion Plants for Larger Harvests

10 Best Sweet Potato Companion Plants for Larger Harvests

Mix and match these sweet potato companion plants in your vegetable beds for pest-free crops and easier gardening.
How to Harvest Mint, Dry Mint, and Store Mint

How to Harvest Mint, Dry Mint, and Store Mint

Learn how to harvest mint to keep plants more manageable and gather fresh mint leaves for cooking, drying, and storing!
How and When to Harvest Radishes at Their Peak

How and When to Harvest Radishes at Their Peak

These easy-to-follow tips will help you figure out how and when to harvest radishes for the best flavor and size. Plus, get troubleshooting advice if your radish roots aren't developing properly.
How and When to Start Tomato Seeds Indoors

How and When to Start Tomato Seeds Indoors

Find out exactly how and when to start tomato seeds indoors so they'll be ready to transplant into your garden in spring.
Tillers vs. Cultivators: How to Choose the Right One for Your Gardening Tasks

Tillers vs. Cultivators: How to Choose the Right One for Your Gardening Tasks

Learn the differences between tillers and cultivators and the tasks they're best suited for.
Here’s What Not to Put in Compost to Avoid a Contaminated Bin

Here’s What Not to Put in Compost to Avoid a Contaminated Bin

Composting is a simple way to turn your kitchen and yard waste into food for your garden. But some of these items should never be in compost.
Easy Lawn Repair for Patchy Grass Using Seed or Sod

Easy Lawn Repair for Patchy Grass Using Seed or Sod

With a bit of grass seed or sod, lawn repair is easy, and you’ll soon have a lush green carpet again.
What Are the Tiny White Bugs on Your Plants? 4 Common Pests They Could Be

What Are the Tiny White Bugs on Your Plants? 4 Common Pests They Could Be

Tiny white bugs on plants in your home or outdoors can be a big problem. Learn how to identify and get rid of them with this guide.
How to Spot 5 Common Plant Diseases and Keep Your Garden Healthy

How to Spot 5 Common Plant Diseases and Keep Your Garden Healthy

Protect your plants from the most common diseases. Learn to recognize the symptoms and how to prevent these diseases in the first place.
How to Landscape with Rocks and Stones in Your Yard

How to Landscape with Rocks and Stones in Your Yard

Decorative rocks and stones add another element of nature to your yard, whether you grow hydrangeas, tulips, or cacti.
Landscape Planning Tips From Start to Finish for a Perfect Yard

Landscape Planning Tips From Start to Finish for a Perfect Yard

Even if you're a beginner, these simple landscape planning tips will take the mystery out of designing your yard's ideal layout.
10 Native Alternatives to Invasive Plants Growing in Your Garden

10 Native Alternatives to Invasive Plants Growing in Your Garden

Use native plants in your garden instead of popular invasive landscape plants: See a list of common invasive plants, plus native alternatives to plant instead.
Your Seasonal Lawn-Care Schedule for the Midwest

Your Seasonal Lawn-Care Schedule for the Midwest

Use our lawn-care schedule to help you maintain a beautiful yard all year long. You'll learn exactly when to mow, aerate, fertilize, and overseed.