Feather reed grass (Calamagrostis × acutiflora)

Photo: Photo by David J. Stang, CC BY-SA 4.0 · source

Pruning guide · Ornamental grass

Feather reed grass: when and how to prune

Calamagrostis × acutiflora

Feather reed grass is best pruned in February.

Key facts
Pruning monthsFebruary
FloweringJune–August
Native to BelgiumNo, planted

Feather reed grass: when to prune it?

In late February, before new growth starts: it is an early riser.

What else to prune in those months? February

Feather reed grass: how to prune it?

  1. Tie the clump together with string and cut it off in one go.
  2. Cut back to 10–15 cm above the ground.
  3. If green shoots are already showing, cut carefully above them.

How much to cut, and how often?

  • One pruning period a year: February.

What does it mean for wildlife?

  • If you only cut back in February, the old stems stand through the winter: insects overwinter in them and birds eat the seeds.

Caution: Do not wait until April: you will cut off the young shoots too and the clump will look damaged for a while.

Nearby: related pruning guides

Plant profile: Feather reed grass · Pruning calendar and basic rules

This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.

Laden…