Although a few tolerate shade, most grasses require full sun. Some grasses or grass-like plants tolerate wet soils, but more require a well-drained soil. To become drought and pest resistant, plants require a suitable root zone. In compacted soils, the root systems of these typically drought-tolerant plants will not develop. Incorporate organic matter into the root zone to improve water-holding capacity and oxygen levels. Dollars invested in soil improvement will be returned in fewer maintenance problems and fewer unattractive, short-lived plants.

If watered regularly, you can plant container grown ornamental grasses throughout the summer. Plant bare roots or divisions in the spring. Fall planting and division is discouraged.

In contrast to other flowering perennials, ornamental grasses require minimum maintenance and most species are both insect and disease resistant. However, improperly sited plants may become diseased because of poor air movement, high nitrogen soils or inadequate light.

Fertilization

Before you plant in a new site, test the soil. If your soil needs phosphorous, potassium, calcium or sulfur, incorporate them thoroughly into the future root zone before planting. These nutrients will not move into the root zone if applied only to the soil surface. Micronutrient deficiencies vary geographically. Check with county extension staff for guidelines in your area.

Use foliar appearance as a guide to nitrogen requirements. To prevent lodging, flopping or the need for staking, keep soil nitrogen levels low. However, if the leaf blade isn't a normal green color, nitrogen or a micronutrient may be needed. Unsatisfactory foliar color could also indicate low soil oxygen levels, inadequate drainage or excess watering.

Irrigation

Until a mature root system develops, newly planted grasses require a moist root zone. Only a mature root system can extract sufficient water to maintain itself during drought periods. Be careful not to overwater drought-tolerant grasses.

Winter Preparation

Adapted ornamental grasses don't require winter mulch. Leaving the foliage on the plant provides some protection from crown tissue (the part of the grass plant near soil line) desiccation. Fall planted grasses and less hardy grasses may require additional mulching.

In early spring before new growth begins, remove the previous year's foliage. You can use hand clippers or a mechanical weed whip. Your choice depends on the toughness of the foliage, as well as the number of ornamental grasses you manage. Do not cut flush with the ground. It is best to leave about 6" of old growth. Grasses will begin growing earlier if foliage is removed. Also, the plant is more attractive when dead foliage is not interspersed with living tissue.

Plant division depends on the spacing and visual appearance you desire and your need for additional plants. If the center of the clump shows little or no growth, the plant should be divided. Separate and replant the vigorous growth on the outer edge of the clump and discard the center section.