Alpine Sweetgrass

Alpine Sweetgrass should be watered once or twice a week depending on outdoor temperatures. During warmer temperatures, it should be watered more frequently. Water slowly and deeply, allowing the top 3 to 4 inches of soil to dry out before watering again. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Do not allow the soil to become soggy or muddy. Once a month during its active growing season, give the plant a deep soak, allowing water to penetrate the entire root zone.

Alpine Sweetgrass (Anthoxanthum monticola subsp. alpinum) generally prefers full sun, meaning 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. In high altitude areas, however, it may do well with slightly less sunlight. Alpine Sweetgrass can also tolerate partial shade but its growth and flowering potential will be reduced. In order for Alpine Sweetgrass to thrive, it should receive the majority of its sunlight in the morning and early afternoon when the sun is strongest. It may benefit from some afternoon shade (late day and/or evening shade) in warmer climates.

Pruning of Alpine Sweetgrass should be done when the plant reaches a mature size and shape. Since this grass is a slow-growing groundcover, it doesn't need yearly pruning like other plants. When pruning Alpine Sweetgrass, use sharp shears to carefully cut stems and foliage down to a comfortable level. Prune in the spring to remove dead foliage as it re-emerges from dormancy. During this period, it’s important to remove any old stems and foliage that have become too tall or are competing with newer growth. Cut back the tips of stems roughly 1-third of their current size, and if pruning in the summer, use clean, sharp shears when possible. After pruning, it’s important to keep the grass well-watered and fertilized, especially during the summer months.