Lawn Guardian

Switchgrass Care Guide

Panicum virgatum

ornamental_grassZones 3–9nativedeer resistant

Upright native prairie grass with airy flower clouds in fall. Blue-green or red cultivars available. Essential component of prairie restorations and native landscapes.

At a glance

Season-by-season care

Spring

Cut back to 4-6 inches Early spring

Remove last year's growth before new shoots emerge.

Summer

No care needed Summer

Switchgrass is a tough native that thrives on neglect. Do not fertilize or overwater.

Fall

Leave for winter structure Fall

Tawny fall color and airy seed heads provide excellent winter garden interest.

Ecological value

Dominant native tallgrass prairie species. Deep roots (up to 10 feet) improve soil structure and sequester carbon. Seeds feed sparrows and juncos. Provides overwintering habitat for beneficial insects.

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Related plants

Sources: Purdue University Turfgrass Science: Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Applications · University of Missouri Extension: Cool-Season Grasses: Lawn Maintenance Calendar · University of Minnesota Extension: Pre-emergent Herbicides for Crabgrass Control in Lawns