ROCK GARDENS
Ornamental
Grasses for Marsh or Rock Gardens 3
They must, however, be cut
at the right time, usually between June and
the end of August. In cutting, which must
be done before the heads are fully out, and
while the grass is still green in the rock
garden, the stalks should be kept as long
as possible. The grasses should be tied up
in bunches and dried in a cool, airy place.
Gathering must take place in fine weather
and When the grass is quite dry. and planting
out in prepared beds in May, almost a season
may be gained in the growth of the plants.
Like all the grasses, the seed should be
barely covered with soil, and the surface
kept moist, until germination is assured.
There are, however, several varieties of
this grass, in addition to its sexual distinctions.
When practicable it is, therefore, best to
purchase plants divided from those that have
grown the finest flower-stems; the pampas-grass
can be rapidly increased by division. Plants
thus divided are more tender than others,
and will require more protection until they
are thoroughly established. Few plants, however,
are more worthy of attention, as they have
a fine appearance when growing; and if the
flower-stem is cut before it begins to fade,
it is almost as showy when dried. In addition
to the localities here pointed out for them,
they also contrast admirably with large masses
of yews or other dark-foliaged shrubs. A
companion grass to this, with broad-striped
foliage and large, feathery flowers, is the
Erianthus Ravennce, the Woolly Beard Grass,
growing to four or more feet in height, even
in the difficult soil conditions of the average
rock gardens. Other tall-growing grasses
are: Arundo Donax and A. conspicua (syn.
Cortaderia conspicua), which much resemble
Pampas-grass; and a beautiful, little-known
kind, Glyceria aquatica variegata. The Tussock
Grass and some of the common reeds and rushes
also form beautiful features when used in
connection with these.
ornamenal grasses page 4...
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