Species Prairie Sedge
brown spikelets with green-brown foliage

Prairie Sedge

Carex prairea

Prairie Sedge (Carex prairea) is a perennial plant native to North America. It is a popular plant found in many prairies and dry meadows. It has tall, slender green stems that grow in beautiful mounds. Its foliage changes to a striking golden yellow in the fall, providing a stunning landscape. This plant is popular in xeriscape landscapes because it thrives in both moist and dry conditions. It is an important source of nutrients and shelter for wildlife and beneficial communities of insects. Prairie Sedge is a beautiful and hardy plant that provides a tranquil atmosphere in any garden.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Prairie Sedge should be watered every 7-10 days, depending on the weather and the growing conditions. This species requires moist, well-draining soil so avoid watering too much. Likewise, water infrequently enough that the soil does not become completely dry and saturated. An average amount of water that is sufficient for this species is 1-2 inches per week. Water should be evenly distributed around the plant, preferably in the morning to allow the plant to make use of the water throughout the day.

sunlight

Prairie Sedge is a sun loving plant species that does best in full sun exposure. It can tolerate some slight mid-day shade, but it thrives in 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight. During summer months, it should receive full sun exposure for the majority of the day. During the winter months, its sunlight requirements may be slightly reduced. To ensure the healthiest growth, it should be planted in the sunniest spot in the garden.

pruning

Prairie Sedge should be pruned twice a year, once in late winter or early spring and again in late summer or early fall. Pruning should be done lightly, removing no more than 1-third of the plant's foliage at a time. In late winter or early spring, remove only the dead or damaged foliage. In late summer or early fall, thin out and remove any overcrowded or diseased foliage. Take care when pruning to avoid cutting into healthy, living growth.