zebra grass

Zebra grass should be watered deeply and thoroughly once a week during the growing season (spring through summer). To do this, saturate the soil until water is flowing freely through the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. Once the soil is soaked, allow it to dry out completely before watering again. During periods of excessive heat or drought, you may need to water more frequently. In the winter, water only occasionally. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

The zebra grass species (Miscanthus sinensis 'Zebrinus') prefers full sun to light shade, with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The plant will start to flower in months with warmer weather, typically in late summer and through early fall. During the summer months, it enjoys full sun from sunrise to sunset, with only a few hours of partial shade in the mid-afternoon when temperatures are at their highest. During the winter months, however, it will appreciate some afternoon shade, as long days with full sun can cause the plant to dry out more quickly.

Prune your Zebra Grass (Miscanthus sinensis 'Zebrinus') lightly in the late wintertime (February or March) or early spring (April or May). For certain climates, late fall (November) is an option as well. The goal is to remove old, dead foliage, regulate the growth of the plant, and prevent it from becoming spindly. Begin by cutting off the dead foliage to about 1 foot above the ground. If needed, trim off any uneven stalks. It is best not to prune Zebra Grass more than once a year and, when pruning, only remove the tips of the stems. Too much pruning can affect its flowering or slow its growth.