How to plant grasses

Grasses are a wonderful way to add a new dimension to the garden. Bringing movement and a tranquil rustle to a static border in the light summer breeze, they will provide a mysterious and decorative look to the garden as the frost settles on their brown stems in the depth of winter. Beyond their fantastic ornamental qualities, the dying foliage of grasses can harbour insects which will act as a food source for wildlife. Birds will also enjoy their dry leaves and stems as they will offer them dry shelter during the harsher months. Grasses work especially well mixed with perennials such achilleas, heleniums, rudbeckias, thalictrums or camassias and alliums.

They like sun to partial shade and require dry to moist conditions. Planting distance varies from 60 to 120 cm depending on the variety.