Photo: Hamsterdancer, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Ornamental grass
Giant miscanthus: when and how to prune
Miscanthus × giganteus
Giant miscanthus is best pruned in March.
| Pruning months | March |
|---|---|
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Giant miscanthus: when to prune it?
Cut all stems down in March, before the new shoots appear.
What else to prune in those months? March
Giant miscanthus: how to prune it?
- Cut or saw all stems down to 10–15 cm above the ground; hedge shears or a pruning saw work best.
- Tie the stems together with string first: they will not fall everywhere and are easy to carry away.
- Shred them for mulch or add them to the compost heap.
- Do not wait too long, or you will cut the young shoots as well.
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: Wear gloves and long sleeves: the leaf edges are rough and sharp and can cause small cuts.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Giant miscanthus · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.