Perennials - Pampas Grass
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  (February) My question is about Pampas grass (ornamental grass). I have some large ones now that have of course turned brown and dry through the winter, what is the best way to get new grass growing. Some say burn them, some say cut them way back, your opinion would be greatly appreciated.

  My recommendation is to cut the old foliage off as close as possible--which is usually about 8 to12 inches from the ground. Some people do like to burn it off, but that can lead to problems if the burning is not controlled well--people have set their lawn on fire or melted irrigation equipment. It is recommended that you remove all the old foliage prior to new growth beginning each year in late February or early March.

  (March) We have a large planting of pampas grass that has a large hole in the center. Can this be dug and replanted and when is the best time to do so?

  This center dieback can occur if you don't get the old foliage pruned off every year. It tends to collect in the center, and cause the center to decay. You can dig it up and discard the center and replant the surrounding crowns, but let me forewarn you--it is not an easy task! Pampas grass has one tough root system. If you have ever tried even just cutting off the old leaves it isn't easy. You either need an extremely strong back, or a backhoe. Good Luck!

  We are new to Arkansas and have some questions about plants we have in our yard. We have a pampas grass that was beautiful until the cold weather came. It is now drooping and looks terrible. Should we cut it back, and if so how much? Could sure use your help.

  Ornamental grasses benefit from being pruned back to almost ground line every year, in late February. I would still wait now, since we may have more winter weather, and the old foliage is protecting the crown of the plant.

  My pampas grass clumps are horribly tough. Should they be cut to the ground yearly? If so, when should this be done? Is there a reasonably easy way to separate a piece in order to start a new clump? 

  All ornamental grasses should be cut back yearly, usually in late February to early March, to take off the old, dead leaves and make room for the new growth. If this doesn’t occur, the clumps tend to disintegrate in the center. Pampas grass can be a tough one to cut back, since the leaf blades are quite sharp. The easiest way to get a new start of pampas grass, is to find a crown that is attached at the edge of your clump. Using a sharp knife or shovel, separate it and replant.

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