More Than Just Ornamental Grass: Multiplying Your Mexican Feather Grass
Bouteloua gracilis, better known as Mexican feather grass, is a stunning ornamental grass celebrated for its graceful arching foliage and whimsical seed heads that resemble tiny brushes. This drought-tolerant, low-maintenance beauty adds movement and texture to gardens across the country. But did you know that propagating this charming grass is easier than you think? Whether you wish to expand your garden haven or share its beauty with a friend, this guide will unveil the secrets of successfully multiplying your Bouteloua gracilis.
Method 1: Division – The Gift that Keeps on Giving
Division is the most popular and arguably the easiest way to propagate Mexican feather grass. This method involves digging up an established clump and dividing it into smaller sections, each capable of developing into a new plant.
- When to Divide: Early spring or fall is the ideal time for division, allowing the new plants sufficient time to establish themselves before facing extreme weather.
- How to Divide:
- Digging: Carefully dig around the entire clump, ensuring you maintain a safe distance from the base of the plant. Gently lift the clump from the soil, shaking off excess dirt.
- Dividing: Using a sharp, clean knife or spade, slice through the root ball, aiming for sections with a good amount of roots and shoots. Larger divisions tend to establish themselves more quickly.
- Replanting: Replant your divisions in well-drained soil at the same depth they were originally growing. Water thoroughly and keep the soil consistently moist until new growth appears.
Method 2: Seeding – From Tiny Grains to Graceful Blades
For those who enjoy a bit more of a challenge, propagating Bouteloua gracilis from seed can be an incredibly rewarding experience.
- Seed Collection: The fluffy seed heads appear in late summer and are a sign that your grass is ready to share its bounty. Simply snip the seed heads and store them in a paper bag in a cool, dry location for a few weeks. This allows the seeds to fully mature and dry.
- Sowing Time: You can start seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost or sow directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed.
- Sowing Technique:
- Indoor Sowing: Use a seed starting mix and sprinkle a few seeds per cell, lightly pressing them into the soil. Keep the soil moist and place the tray in a brightly lit location but out of direct sunlight.
- Outdoor Sowing: Scatter the seeds over prepared soil and lightly rake them in. Water gently and keep the soil moist.
- Patience is Key: Germination can take anywhere from 14-28 days, so don’t despair if you don’t see sprouts immediately.
A Garden Filled with Grace
Whether you choose division or seed starting, propagating Bouteloua gracilis is a rewarding way to enhance your garden’s beauty and share the joy of this graceful grass. With a little care and patience, you’ll soon have a flourishing landscape filled with the wispy elegance of Mexican feather grass.