Giant Sacaton Grasses 4yrs. Old Only 2.5-3′ High

Question

I buy most of my plants from High Country Gardens or Plants of the Southwest. I buy flowers that are native and will attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. I live in Quemado Lake Estates at an altitude of 8000′. I bought the Giant Sacaton grasses in 2020 and at first they seemed to be doing well; however, they are not getting taller and I bought them to provide a screen. I followed the planting directions of High Country Gardens, made the hole at least 16 inches across and 12″ deep added some compost mixed with our soil and put in Mineral Boost and Yum Yum Mix Fertilizer. I use the Mineral Boost every spring with the Yum Yum Mix fertilizer and last year tried using those 2 ingredients on a monthly basis through the growing season. We are very good about deep watering as needed (I use a moisture meter). This year Iam going to try using Super Thrive Root stimulant to see if that might help; it mixes in a gallon of water and you water it in. The flowers I’ve planted, which are mostly Agastaches have done pretty well. Any information you can give me will be greatly appreciated. Thank You!

Answer 1

I see some general care items that may help. Native plants generally don't need fertilizer so cut back on the fertilizer. Too much will burn the roots. A little in spring is OK. Ornamental grasses need to be cut back at the end of each winter, so cut your grasses back to 6 inches. That will invigorate new growth. Dividing them will also stimulate growth.

These grasses thrive on neglect. This article tells how to care for them:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/sacaton-grass/growing-giant-sacaton-grass.htm