Photo: Matt Lavin from Bozeman, Montana, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 · source
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Pruning guide · Ornamental grass
Big bluestem: when and how to prune
Andropogon gerardi
Big bluestem is best pruned in March.
| Pruning months | March |
|---|---|
| Flowering | August–September |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for birds |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Big bluestem: when to prune it?
In March, before the new leaves appear. Leave the grass standing all winter.
What else to prune in those months? March
Big bluestem: how to prune it?
- Cut all old stems and leaves back to 10–15 cm above the ground.
- Tie the stems together with string first: you can then cut them in one go with hedge shears, with less mess.
- Use the clippings as mulch between other plants or put them on the compost heap.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: March.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- If you only cut back in March, the old stems stand through the winter: insects overwinter in them and birds eat the seeds.
Caution: Do not cut back in autumn: you lose the autumn and winter colour, and birds and insects lose food and shelter.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Big bluestem · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.