Purple Three Awn Grass

Purple Three Awn Grass should be watered approximately 2 to 3 times per week during the active growing season. To check for water needs, poke your finger into the soil--if it feels dry several inches below the surface, then it is time to water. Water slowly and deeply so the water reaches the roots several inches below the surface. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, but do not allow the plant to wilt completely. During the winter and other inactive months, only give the grass enough water to keep the soil slightly moist.

Purple Three Awn Grass (Aristida purpurea) needs to receive full sunlight (6-8 hours a day) for best growth and flowering. It prefers to be in a location with plenty of direct sunlight, but can also do well in part-sun areas as long as the sun exposure is at least 4 to 6 hours each day. This species of grass thrives best during spring and summer, when there is more abundant sunlight for it to photosynthesize and grow. During the winter months, purple 3 awn grass will go semi-dormant, and may need protection from extreme cold temperatures that can cause it to suffer frost damage.

Purple Three Awn Grass should be pruned lightly in early spring. This will help to ensure the best growth each year. Pruning should be done down to 2 to 3 inches from the ground and should include trimming away any dead or dying blades of grass. It is also important to thin out the plants as they start to fill in, as this will keep air and light circulating around them, encouraging vigorous growth. Pruning should be done no more than once or twice a year, as more frequent pruning can stress the plants and hamper growth.