little bluestem
Schizachyrium scoparium 'Prairie Munchkin'
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Minimum
Propagation:
Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
3 - 9
Flowers:
Light brown Flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Thorny:
Yes
Care Level:
Easy
watering
Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium 'Prairie Munchkin') should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week. In hot, dry weather, the plants may need more frequent watering, as often as 3 times a week. During winter months, they will grow slower and will require less frequent watering. It's important not to let the soil dry out for too long, as this can adversely affect the health of your Little Bluestem.
sunlight
Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium 'Prairie Munchkin') grows best when provided with lots of sunlight. In general, these plants prefer at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day. They can also tolerate some partial shade, but too much shade can lead to a weakened plant and decreased vigor. During the summer months, they should have direct sunlight for several hours of the day, while in the winter, they can tolerate some periods of shade.
pruning
Little bluestem 'Prairie Munchkin' should be pruned in the late winter or early spring each year. Typically the cuts are made no more than 1/2 inch above the ground. This will help promote new growth and thicker, bushier plant growth. Avoid pruning too much, as this can weaken the plant and lead to issues such as disease and dead growth. To help rejuvinate the plant, cut off dead growth and stray stems. For an optimal appearance, prune off any faded flower heads, removing these back to the first set of leaves. Pruning away any dead or damaged leaves will also promote healthy growth. Be sure to use sharp pruning shears and clean them when pruning, as this will help prevent the spread of disease.
