Photo: Erhan yelekci, CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
Pruning guide · Ornamental grass
Oriental fountain grass: when and how to prune
Cenchrus orientalis
Oriental fountain grass is best pruned in March.
| Pruning months | March |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–September |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Oriental fountain grass: when to prune it?
In March or early April, just before the new shoots appear.
What else to prune in those months? March
Oriental fountain grass: how to prune it?
- First tie the clump loosely with string: this makes the clear-up easy.
- Cut the clump back to 5–10 cm above the ground with sharp shears or a hedge trimmer.
- Wear gloves: the leaf edges can be sharp.
- Compost the clippings.
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: the old leaves protect the crown from damp and frost.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Oriental fountain grass · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.