Growing Grass Successfully | TN

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How to Grow Grasses Successfully

Cattails and bulrush are vigorous native perennial grasses suitable for marshy ground. They form colonies well-adapted to poorly drained soil. Sturdy underwater roots, called rhizomes, can withstand winter freezing. These large aquatic plants offer erosion control, wildlife cover, nesting materials, and feed. They can even be grown in large pots submerged in manufactured pools and water features.

Soft stem bulrush grows in deep or shallow water, survives flooding and draining, and likes marshy ground and wooded wetlands. Bulrush can even withstand salt or brackish water.

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Common soft stem bulrush, also called giant, great bulrush, or bullwhip, is known as Scirpus Validus or S. Validus. Some authorities list it as S. tabernaemontani. If you cannot find seeds or plants to buy, seek along the edges of waterways or ponds for a colony of thick green clumps as tall as 8 feet high. You can collect seeds almost any time of year. Recognize S. Validus by squeezing the stems.

Does the tough green tapering stem about an inch wide at the base feel soft and spongy? Is the clump a stand of stems with no blade-like leaves? Are the flowers and nutty fruits at the tip drooping in hanging ripe clusters with brownish bristled nutlets? Collect ripe fruit or seeds and leave some for the water birds, wildlife, and wrens.

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Tips on how to plant grasses

Plant the seeds in pots and offer them winter shelter with good light. Settle the pots in 3 inches of standing water. The seeds will germinate quickly. Let them grow under shelter, using a cold frame in the north until winter is over. When sprouts toughen into seedlings, plant them out where they will grow permanently. Let smaller seedlings grow in pots until summer, and then plant where you have already established the others.

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Cattails, or Typha, scatter their seeds on the wind in nature and are collected by deep-digging rhizome roots and re-settling plants in a new colony. Typha can be either narrow or broadleaf. The leaf is blade-shaped. The unique summer-flowering plume spikes mature into the familiar brown velvet pods which give them their name. Typha colonies can range from 3 to 10 feet tall. Their vigorous growth and old debris can blank out competition and access to the water. Typha marches boldly along irrigated field canals and wades into farm ponds and ditches. Holding ground and impeding siltation make cat tails pioneers in a landscape transitioning from aquatic marshland to new growth fields. 

Successful control of robust aquatic grasses may require mowing, trimming, dredging, flooding, and freezing.

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Cattail Plant - TN Nursery

Cattail Plant

The Cattail Plant is a wetland species with long, slender, spear-like leaves and distinctive brown, cylindrical flower spikes commonly found in marshes, ponds, and other aquatic habitats. The cattail plant (Typha) is a group of 30 tall marsh grasses growing like reeds. Their tall, slender stalks and distinctive brown, fluffy, flowered heads make them an interesting addition to any landscape. They are excellent ways to elevate the beauty of your landscape for those who have a garden near a lake or want to emulate the tranquility of country cottages. Transform Your Space With Cattail Plant Whether planted alone or in clusters, they add rustic charm and delight to any garden. While they make striking visual statements, they don't overwhelm surrounding foliage or fauna. Instead, their neutral colors and lengthy, slim stalks create a grounding effect ideal for filling space and centering your collection. Create a Wildlife Oasis With Cattail Plant Invite more wildlife into your yard with them, which thrive near water and can be integral to a thriving pond ecosystem. They provide safety and coverage for many bird species and serve as food for many herbivorous animals. The good news for many gardeners is that Typha is typically not known to attract bumblebees, so you can add visual depth and beauty to your garden without bringing too many pollinators to the space. The good news is that they do not require much human interference to thrive. As long as they are put in the right environment, they will flourish effortlessly. Their widespread adaptability makes them an ideal choice for both experienced and novice gardeners. Embrace Eco-Friendly Landscaping With The Cattail Plant Sustainable gardening is vital to improving our climate and supporting local ecosystems. They are excellent water purifiers, absorbing excess nutrients while their roots help prevent soil erosion. They also serve as a source for many types of fish, so if you have a pond with marsh feeders, they may enjoy adding them to their aquatic home. Incorporating Cattail Plants into your backyard ecosystem can support a brighter planet for all animals and contribute to a more sustainable, greener future.

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6 Pack - Bulrush Plugs - TN Nursery

Bulrush

Bulrush offers a range of benefits when integrated into landscaping projects. These versatile plants, commonly found near water bodies, bring a distinct and natural charm to outdoor spaces while serving functional and ecological roles. Enjoy Color-Changing Foliage Of Bulrush Plugs Bulrush plugs have long, floppy, dark green stems that are triangular. The spongy stems support spikey blossoms that occasionally sag and reach just below the stem's tip. Each flower spike usually produces anywhere from 50 to 100 blooms that range from 1.5 to 4.5 inches in length each spring. The leaf blades' characteristic "V" shape gives them a sheath-like appearance as they round the lengthy stem. Depending on the kind, flowers can be any yellow, red, or brown shade. The most color change tends to occur towards the end of fall. Create Dramatic Silhouettes With Bulrush The upright growth of their long, thin stems makes them a dramatic vertical feature in any setting. Their tall stalks provide a striking visual contrast when seen against a water background. The foliage is verdant and showy in the spring and summer, with large spikes of flowers. It can take on a golden or brown hue in the fall, creating a cozy background. The plugs form striking silhouettes against the sky, particularly at dawn or sunset. Bulrush Can Get Up To 10 Feet Tall Their delicate texture produces lots of textural contrast when combined with the robust leaves of broad-leaved plants. They also pair well with the fluffy plumes of ornamental grasses. Their tall, thin stems and growth patterns give their surroundings a sense of height and depth. They can get up to 10 feet tall. Bulrush has deep root systems that help keep soil in place. This is especially beneficial in areas with freshly exposed soil and sloped banks. Many people use them for wetland reclamation projects. These plants act as wind barriers when grown in clusters or rows, further helping with erosion control. These wind barriers can also double as natural privacy screens. Another way that they improve soil vitality is by absorbing harmful metals and bacteria. This reduces water pollution, making the soil healthier and less likely to erode.

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6 Pack - Pennsylvania Sedge - TN Nursery

6 Pack - Pennsylvania Sedge

Pennsylvania Sedge is a versatile and attractive plant that has gained popularity in landscaping due to its numerous attributes. This native grass-like perennial is well-suited for a wide range of planting situations, making it an excellent choice for various landscaping projects. One of the primary attributes of this plant is its adaptability to different environmental conditions. Pennsylvania Sedge Thrives In Many Regions Additionally, it is drought-tolerant once established, making it a great choice for regions with inconsistent rainfall or dry spells. Another benefit of this plant is its low-maintenance nature. Once it becomes established, it requires minimal care and attention, reducing the need for frequent watering, fertilization, and pest control. This attribute is particularly appealing to homeowners and landscapers who desire a beautiful landscape without constant upkeep. Another significant attribute of this sedge that contributes to its popularity in landscaping is its aesthetic appeal. The plant forms dense, lush clumps of fine-textured foliage that resemble miniature ornamental grass. Its bright green color remains attractive throughout the growing season, providing a beautiful backdrop for other plants in the landscape. The dense foliage also helps suppress weed growth, further reducing maintenance requirements. Pennsylvania Sedge Is A Great Gap Filler Furthermore, it is a versatile plant that can be used in various landscaping applications. It works well as a ground cover, filling in gaps between larger plants and creating a cohesive look. Its ability to tolerate light foot traffic makes it an excellent choice for planting in areas where people may walk or play. Additionally, this plant can be used in erosion control on slopes or banks, helping to stabilize the soil and prevent erosion. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate another essential attribute of this sedge: its value to local ecosystems. The plant provides habitat and food for various wildlife species, including birds, butterflies, and other pollinators. As a native plant, it contributes to the overall biodiversity of the area and supports local wildlife populations. In addition to its environmental benefits, it also offers some practical advantages. It is relatively inexpensive compared to other landscaping options, making it a cost-effective choice for large-scale projects or budget-conscious homeowners. Moreover, it also is relatively easy to propagate, allowing for expansion and naturalization in suitable areas of the landscape. Overall, it possesses numerous attributes that make it an excellent choice for landscaping projects. Its adaptability, low-maintenance nature, aesthetic appeal, and ecological value contribute to its increasing popularity among homeowners, landscapers, and conservationists alike. Whether used as a ground cover, erosion control measure, or simply to add a touch of green to the landscape, this sedge is a versatile and valuable addition to any landscaping design. Pennsylvania Sedge Is A Charming Grass Pennsylvania Sedge, scientifically known as Carex pensylvanica, is a charming perennial grass-like plant that adds a touch of elegance to natural landscapes across North America. This native sedge belongs to the Cyperaceae family and thrives in various ecological niches, from woodlands and meadows to wetlands and streambanks. Characterized by its graceful appearance and environmental significance, it is a botanical gem that captivates the eye and is vital to diverse ecosystems. The grass typically grows in tufts or clumps, with slender, arching stems that can reach heights of 6 to 12 inches. Its foliage, comprising narrow, linear leaves that radiate outwards like delicate, cascading green ribbons, is one of its most distinguishing features. These leaves create a striking contrast against the background, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of any natural setting they inhabit. During the growing season, the leaves display a vibrant green hue while transitioning to a lovely golden brown in the fall, providing a touch of warm, autumnal charm. The intricate inflorescence of the grass consists of numerous inconspicuous, thread-like spikes, which emerge in late spring to early summer. These spikes bear tiny, unassuming flowers, often pale green or brown. While not particularly showy, these blossoms are a crucial food source for pollinators, including bees and butterflies. They also play an essential role in the plant's reproductive cycle, ensuring its continued existence in the wild. It is celebrated not only for its visual appeal but also for its ecological importance. Its dense tufts of foliage serve as valuable ground cover, guarding the soil from decay and supporting diverse wildlife. Many small mammals and birds find shelter and nesting sites within its clumps, making it an integral part of the local ecosystem. Gardeners and conservationists alike appreciate it for its low-maintenance and eco-friendly attributes. Its capability to thrive in different soil types and moisture conditions, from dry to moderately moist, makes it a versatile choice for landscaping and habitat restoration projects. Its presence enriches the biodiversity of natural areas, contributing to ecosystems' overall health and resilience. In conclusion, Pennsylvania Sedge is a striking native plant that brings visual allure and ecological significance to the natural world. With its slender leaves, unpretentious flowers, and vital role in supporting local wildlife, it is a testament to the intricate beauty and functional importance of our planet's native flora. Whether found along a woodland path or adorning a wetland edge, this graceful sedge leaves an indelible mark on the landscapes it graces.

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6 Pack - Gayfeather Liatris - TN Nursery

6 Pack - Gayfeather Liatris

Gayfeather Liatris plants typically produce tall spikes of purple or white flowers that bloom from top to bottom. These flowers are densely packed along the spike, creating a striking visual display in gardens and natural landscapes. Sold In 6 Pack Cell Trays If you're looking for a unique flowering plant that will add depth and height to your gardens, gayfeather liatris may help you fulfill your landscaping dreams. It is also known as dense blazing star and button snakeroot. To botanists, it's known as Spicata. It is native to eastern North America, where it can be found growing next to tall grasses and wildflowers. It is part of the aster family and one of 40 plant species. Gayfeather Liatris Characteristics It can grow to a height of up to four feet and a width of up to one foot. It spouts long, cone—or brush-shaped pink to purple blooms that blossom from summer to late fall and make excellent cuttings for bouquets. The plant's leaves average 16 inches in length and resemble grass or feathers. Gardeners will especially enjoy the leaves throughout the fall because they tend to keep their color and shape late into the season. Add Vertical Accents with Gayfeather Liatris It is prized for its ability to add vertical accents to gardens. This wildflower looks best in front of other perennials and ornamental grasses, where it can add color and height. Gardeners may also prefer to use it along the borders of their property or to add visual interest to the edges of sidewalks and driveways. If you love bird or butterfly watching, this flowering perennial would make a great addition to your yard. It attracts birds, butterflies, bumble bees, and honey bees. It's beautiful to monarch butterflies, silver-spotted skippers, and painted ladies. Hummingbirds have even been known to frequent dense blazing stars because they produce a lot of nectar. Best Gardens to Plant Gayfeather Liatris Dense Gayfeather Liatris can be found naturally in meadows and prairies throughout eastern North America. Gardeners can enjoy planting it in cottage, English, butterfly, and even rain gardens. They pair well with beardtongue, beebalm, blue fescue, common Bluestar, and false blue indigo. It makes a beautiful addition to many different types of flower and butterfly gardens. It's also perfect for planting in areas that are being rewilded, naturalized, or xeriscaped.

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