How And When To Cut Back Ornamental Grass

A: Depends on the variety. Most gardeners prefer to leave decorative grasses in place over the winter to provide interest.. In very early spring it should be cut back. to ground gourd level. I have a friend who after cutting it back tall grasses to 4 to 6 inches he takes a weed walker and chops them to back to ground level. He says it allows sun to get to the center of the stand and keeps it from developing hollow centers. Short grasses that form tufts are best cleaned by combing out dead grass by hand. Be sure to wear gloves as the blades are sharp and you can get paper cut like injuries that are very painful. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy