Photo: Warren Gretz, DOE/NREL, Public domain · source
Pruning guide · Ornamental grass
Switchgrass: when and how to prune
Panicum virgatum
Switchgrass is best pruned in March.
| Pruning months | March |
|---|---|
| Flowering | August–October |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for birds |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Switchgrass: when to prune it?
In March, before the new leaves appear. Not in autumn.
What else to prune in those months? March
Switchgrass: how to prune it?
- Cut the whole clump back to 10–15 cm above the ground.
- Tie the clump together with string first: you can then cut it in one go and clearing up is easy.
- Use sharp hedge shears or secateurs.
- Compost the dry leaves or use them as mulch.
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: Don’t cut back too late in spring: if the new shoots are already tall, you will cut off their tips.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Switchgrass · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.