Looking for advice on what Grasses to plant.

15 years ago

Hi, I'm in zone 5, Kansas City I planted some purple fountain grass last year both in the ground and in a large planter that screens my pool equipment. I really liked the look, but I would like to find something that is cold hardy in my zone. So if you have any advice I would appreciate it. I'm also looking for an ornamental grass or two that thrives in wet soil. I have a small drainage grate in one corner of my yard and I have a hard time keeping grass growing without being washed out. So I'm looking for something a little tougher that I can plant and put some larger rocks around to solve the wet area of the yard.

Comments (4)

grass_guy
15 years ago
For the wet area, how about Juncus or Acorus.

If you want the color of Purple Fountain Grass, but hardier, try Panicum Shenendoah. Nothing wrong with using PFG as an annual, just don't expect more.

Some other grasses you might like that are zone 5 suitable are Calamagrostis Karl Foerster, Miscanthus Morning Light, and Panicum Dallas Blues. Lots more, just some of my favorites.
jeradf
Original Author
15 years ago
I have some Acorus already and love it. I'm looking for something a little larger as a a large mass. I like the Shenendoah, and will be looking for some this weekend. Thanks for all the tips.
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dawgie
15 years ago
Panicums are supposed to grow well in wet soils and they will get fairly tall.
jeradf
Original Author
15 years ago
I got two Panicum Shenendoah this past weekend and placed them in the ground. The look good and healthy and are probably 16" tall and were in a gallon pot, I'm hoping they really grow this year to fill in. Thanks for the tips. I'll be planting the wet area of the yard next year probably. So I have a while to research.