Photo: Photo by and (c)2006 Derek Ramsey (Ram-Man). Location credit to the Chanticleer Garden., CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Ornamental grass
Japanese forest grass: when and how to prune
Hakonechloa macra
Japanese forest grass is best pruned in March.
| Pruning months | March |
|---|---|
| Flowering | August–September |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Japanese forest grass: when to prune it?
In March, before the new shoots appear. Leave the coloured foliage standing all winter.
What else to prune in those months? March
Japanese forest grass: how to prune it?
- Cut the whole clump back to 2–5 cm above the ground.
- Use sharp secateurs or shears and remove the old leaves with a rake or by hand.
- Do not cut back in autumn: the dry foliage protects the crown from frost and cold wet.
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 leave it too late: once the new shoots are up, it is easy to snip off their tips.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Japanese forest grass · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.