Hardy, low-maintenance, and stunning—it’s no wonder Chinese Silver Grass (Miscanthus sinensis) is becoming a superstar in American backyards. Whether you call it Maiden Grass or Miscanthus, this ornamental beauty adds amazing texture to any landscape. To help you get yours off to a great start, I’ve put together some of my favorite tips.
Planning Your Space
When it comes to getting started, you’ve basically got two options:
- Buying potted plants from your local nursery
- Propagating through division
Before you dig in, you’ll want to pick the right variety. These grasses can range anywhere from a compact 15 inches to a towering 10 feet tall! Think about your goals—are you looking for a little accent piece or a massive natural privacy screen? Keep in mind that Miscanthus likes to spread out as it grows, so give it plenty of elbow room. For the larger varieties, I’d recommend planning for at least one square yard of space per plant.
The Best Spot, Soil, and Timing
Chinese Silver Grass is happiest in full sun to partial shade. When it comes to soil, it’s really not picky at all! The only thing it truly hates is “wet feet.” Avoid swampy areas, and if your soil is heavy clay, definitely add some drainage to prevent root rot.
While you can technically plant it through late summer, the absolute best time to get it in the ground is April. This gives the roots plenty of time to get established before the heat of summer kicks in.
Planting Your New Grass
Buying a pre-grown plant is the easiest way to jumpstart your garden. Here’s how to do it right:
- Loosen the soil about 10 inches deep and clear out any weeds, old roots, or large stones.
- Dig a hole that’s just a bit larger than the root ball.
- Set the plant in the hole and fill it back in, making sure the roots are completely covered.
- Give it a good drink of water. Your new grass will need a bit more hydration in its first year than an established plant, but just make sure the water isn’t pooling.
Propagating by Division
If you (or a lucky neighbor!) already have a healthy Miscanthus plant, you can easily start a new one by dividing it. Just expose one side of the root ball and use a sharp spade to slice off a section. Make sure the piece you cut away has several healthy shoots attached. Once you’re done, just fill the hole back up on the original plant so the roots aren’t exposed, and plant your new “baby” just like a store-bought one!
