Native to much of the southern United States, Muhly grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris) is an upright, fine-textured ornamental grass that reaches heights of 3 to 5 feet at maturity. The feathery pink or purple inflorescence, which appears in late summer and last well into autumn, rises above the foliage to reach heights of up to 5 feet. Muhly grass, appropriate for mass plantings, borders, accents, or as a stabilizer on difficult slopes, is suitable for planting in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 7 through 11.
Spread 3 to 4 inches of organic matter, such as compost or rotted manure, over a planting spot in full sun with well-draining soil. Cultivate the soil to a depth of at least 8 to 10 inches, using a spade, shovel, garden fork or tiller.
Apply a balanced granular garden fertilizer with a NPK ratio of 10-10-10, using approximately 1/2 to 1 pound of fertilizer for every 100 square feet of planting space. Scatter the fertilizer evenly over the soil, and then dig the granules into the soil.
Dig a hole for each muhly grass plant. Make the hole two to three times the width of the plant's root ball, with the depth no more than the height of the root ball's height. Allow 24 to 36 inches between each plant.
Place the muhly plant in the hole, with the crown of the plant slightly higher than the surrounding soil. The crown is the point where the main stem joins the root system.
Fill the hole with water to ensure the plant's root ball is thoroughly soaked. Wait for the water to soak in, and then fill the hole with soil.
Water muhly grass enough to keep the soil evenly moist during the first growing season. The soil should not be soggy. You do not have to water after the initial growing season, but an occasional watering during periods of hot, dry weather promotes healthier growth and a larger plant.
Things You Will Need
- Organic matter
- Spade, shovel, garden fork, or tiller
- 10-10-10 granular fertilizer
- Garden hose
- Mississippi State University: Muhly Grass Puts on a Show
- Brighter Blooms: Muhly Grass
- University of Illinois Extension: How to Plant Ornamental Grasses
- University of Florida IFAS Extension: Muhlenbergia Capillaris Muhly Grass
- The New Sunset Western Garden Book: Kathleen Norris Brenzel