Zebragrass isn’t just for open garden beds! This striking ornamental grass, known for its unique horizontal stripes, looks absolutely fantastic in containers too. Whether you want to spruce up your patio or add some flair to your balcony, potted Zebragrass is a total game-changer. Here’s everything you need to know about growing this beauty in pots and why it might be the perfect choice for your outdoor space.
How to Plant and Care for Zebragrass in Containers
Since Zebragrass develops a pretty substantial root ball, a standard little balcony flower box usually won’t cut it. You’ll want a sturdy planter or pot to give it the room it needs. This grass is a vigorous grower, so if it starts outgrowing its home, you’ll need to repot it. Pro tip: If you want to save yourself some work down the road, plant it in a slightly larger pot right from the start. That way, you won’t have to worry about repotting for about three years.
When it comes to fertilizing, less is definitely more:
- Use fertilizer sparingly.
- Skip the fertilizer entirely during the winter.
- Avoid synthetic chemicals.
- Stick to natural options like compost, organic humus, or liquid manure tea.
This plant is a total sun-worshiper. If you tuck your potted Zebragrass into a spot that’s too shady, it might actually lose those iconic stripes and turn solid green. You definitely don’t want to risk that—those “zebra” markings are its claim to fame! Also, make sure to water regularly, but don’t let it sit in soggy soil. Zebragrass is native to East Asia, so it loves a mix of bright sunshine and consistent moisture.
The Perks of Growing Zebragrass in Pots
Choosing to grow Zebragrass in a container comes with some great benefits. For starters, the pot acts as a natural barrier, preventing the roots from spreading everywhere and “stealing” water from your other plants. Plus, containers give you the flexibility to move your plants around whenever you want to refresh your patio’s look. Since Zebragrass can reach an impressive height of six feet, lining up a few pots is a brilliant way to create a natural, living privacy screen. It’s a favorite trick for many gardeners who want a little extra seclusion!
