Ornamental Grasses: A Guide for Zone 5 Gardeners
Introduction
Ornamental grasses are beautiful plants that add color, texture, and height to any garden. They are relatively low-maintenance and come in a wide range of sizes and varieties to suit any gardener’s needs. However, some varieties perform better in certain climates than others. This guide will help you choose the right ornamental grasses for your Zone 5 garden.
Cool-Season vs. Warm-Season Grasses
Ornamental grasses can be divided into two main categories: cool-season and warm-season. Cool-season grasses thrive in cooler temperatures and grow best in the spring and fall. Warm-season grasses prefer warmer temperatures and grow best in the summer and early fall.
Cool-Season Ornamental Grasses for Zone 5
- Blue Fescue: This grass has silvery-blue foliage and light tan plumes. It grows 6-10 inches tall.
- Blue Hair Grass: This grass has blue-green foliage and golden brown plumes. It grows 12 inches tall.
- Blue Oat Grass: This grass has steel blue foliage and light brown plumes. It grows 2 feet tall.
- Bulbous Oat Grass: This grass has bluish-green foliage with white stripes and tan plumes. It grows 12 inches tall.
- Feather Reed Grass: This grass has dull green foliage and rosy pink to maroon plumes. It grows 3 feet tall.
- Hakone Grass: This grass has creamy white, bright yellow, and green striped foliage. It grows 1-2 feet tall.
- Ribbon Grass: This grass has bright green foliage with white stripes and greenish white to pale pink plumes. It grows 2-3 feet tall.
- Tufted Hair Grass: This grass has dark green foliage and silvery white to golden plumes. It grows 2-3 feet tall.
Warm-Season Ornamental Grasses for Zone 5
- Chinese Silver Grass: This grass has light green foliage with ivory variegation and silvery pink plumes. It grows 4-5 feet tall.
- Fountain Grass: This grass has bright green foliage and buff to rosy white plumes. It grows 3 feet tall.
- Giant Reed Grass: This grass has bluish-green, green, or silver foliage and golden brown plumes. It grows up to 20 feet tall.
- Indian Grass: This grass has pale green, dark green, or blue-green foliage and golden brown plumes. It grows 3-7 feet tall.
- Japanese Blood Grass: This grass has green and red foliage. It does not flower. It grows 2-20 feet tall.
- Northern Sea Oats: This grass has green foliage and golden brown plumes. It grows 3 feet tall.
- Plume Grass: This grass has greyish-green foliage with white midribs and silvery white plumes. It grows 14 feet tall.
- Purple Moor Grass: This grass has dark green foliage and golden to maroon plumes. It grows 2-3 feet tall.
- Switch Grass: This grass has green foliage and pinkish purple plumes. It grows 4-6 feet tall.
Choosing the Right Ornamental Grasses for Your Garden
When choosing ornamental grasses for your garden, consider the following factors:
- Climate: Make sure to choose grasses that are suited to your climate zone.
- Size: Choose grasses that will fit the scale of your garden.
- Color: Choose grasses with foliage and plumes that complement your existing plants.
- Texture: Grasses come in a variety of textures, from fine to coarse. Choose grasses that add visual interest to your garden.
Planting and Care
Ornamental grasses are relatively easy to grow. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Water them regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize them once a year in the spring.
Conclusion
Ornamental grasses are a beautiful and versatile addition to any Zone 5 garden. By following the tips in this guide, you can choose the right grasses for your garden and enjoy their beauty for years to come.
