Fountain grass (Pennisetum) can get a little “lazy” about blooming if its needs aren’t met. While we can’t control the weather, you can definitely step up your garden game with the right care to make sure those beautiful plumes actually show up.
Why isn’t my fountain grass blooming?
If your grass is looking a bit bare, it’s usually due to one of these common culprits:
- A summer that’s been too cool
- Dry soil
- A lack of nutrients
- Not enough elbow room (crowding from neighboring plants)
The good news? Fountain grass is incredibly tough and rarely deals with pests or diseases. So, if you’re missing those blooms, it’s almost never because of “uninvited guests” or sickness.
How can I encourage my fountain grass to bloom?
We can’t do much about a cold, rainy summer, but you can fix almost everything else with a little TLC. Here’s your checklist:
- Water regularly
- Don’t skip the fertilizer
- Divide large clumps to give them more space
What’s the best way to water fountain grass?
Fountain grass loves moisture, but it absolutely hates “wet feet” (standing water). You can set yourself up for success right at planting time by adding drainage—try mixing some sand or gravel into the soil to keep things loose. As a rule of thumb, once the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch, it’s time to give your grass a drink.
How do I fertilize fountain grass?
If you’re a fan of compost, just spread a fresh layer around the base once a year in the spring. You can also use a general-purpose fertilizer for green plants or perennials. The timing depends on what you choose: if you’re using a liquid fertilizer, you’ll typically want to apply it every two to four weeks during the growing season.
How do I thin out fountain grass?
Over time, these grasses love to spread out. Eventually, they start crowding their neighbors, which can really zap their energy for blooming. The fix? Divide the plant in early spring before the new growth starts. First, cut back the old stalks, dig up the entire root ball, and split it into two or more sections. Replant one piece in the original spot and use the others to propagate your grass in other parts of the yard!
