Species Merten's Sedge
orange-brown spikelets with green leaves and stems

Merten's Sedge

Carex mertensii

Merten's Sedge (Carex mertensii) is a wetland plant that is native to western North America. It grows in wet meadows or wet soils in full sun to partial shade, making it a great addition to a water garden or near-water landscape feature. The evergreen foliage grows up to 10 inches tall in a clumping form, with dark green, stiff, pointed leaves. In warmer climates, it will bloom with small, fragrant white flowers in the Summer months. The plant is hardy in USDA Zones 4-9, making it a useful option for gardeners in a wide range of climates.

Watering:

Minimal

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Purple|Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

Sun

Soil:

Clay, Sand

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Fragile Sedge should be watered every 5-10 days, depending on the conditions. About 1 inch of water should be provided every time – more during hot weather – just enough to moisten the soil but not enough to cause waterlogging. During particularly hot and dry spells, water more often to avoid wilting, curling, and drooping of the foliage.

sunlight

Fragile Sedge is a plant species that requires 6-7 hours of sunlight daily in order to thrive. For best results, the sunlight should be dappled and not direct, as full sun can dry out the soil quickly and damage the roots of the plant. Since it is a woodland species, it is best suited for partial shade and morning sun, with protection from the hottest afternoon sun. This species appreciates more water than most other species, and it's soil should remain moist but never soggy.

pruning

Fragile Sedge should be pruned in late spring to early fall, when it is actively growing. Pruning can be done by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged foliage, and reducing the overgrowth in areas where the plant has spread aggressively. It is important to prune lightly at first to avoid shock and then additional pruning can be done as needed through the growing season. Pruning should be done by cutting the stems back to the desired shape and size. Light shearing of the stems can be used to maintain a more compact shape. Pruning back to the ground can be effective when trying to control overgrowth.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

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