Cutting switchgrass correctly - tips on timing and cutting

Cutting switchgrass correctly - tips on timing and cutting

The best time is in spring

A hardy switchgrass does not mind freezing frost down to - 28 degrees Celsius. On the other hand, if the eyrie inside is exposed to permanent winter wetness, there is a risk of rot and mold. The withered stalks therefore act as a natural protective shield against the rigors of cold moisture. The beneficial insects of the garden also appreciate this advantage, so that the switchgrass is a frequently frequented shelter.

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Therefore, do not cut back your switchgrass until early spring. Choose a date in February or March, in good time before the new budding. If the first stalk tips fall victim to the scissors, they turn brown. You will then struggle with this shortcoming for the rest of the year.

The right cut goes like this

The filigree appearance of the stalks belies the sharp edges that cause painful cuts. Therefore, please put on protective gloves before starting work with the freshly sharpened, disinfected scissors or saw. How to do it right:

  • Grasp the stalks in a tuft with one hand
  • With the other hand, cut or saw the grass a hand's breadth above the ground

With a view to the capricious weather of recent years, budding may have taken place very early in the year after a mild winter. In this case, set the scissors or saw aside. Comb out the grass as far as possible with gloved hands.

Tips

With the pruning in early spring, the starting signal for this year's care program is given. Now is the best time to give your switchgrass with a well-measured portion of compost and horn shavings (€ 6.39 at Amazon *) the necessary momentum for a lush shoot of fresh stalks.