Can I grow fountain grass from seed and how do I cure the seed

Question

I have tried over and over to grow grasses (i.e. fountain or pampas) and can never get it to start outside, in a domed container or a pot. Why not? My friend says it has to be fertile. What does this mean?

Answer 1

Your friend is referring to pampas grass that we grow bearing only female flowers. The male flowers are insignificant, and since they are on separate plants, they are not sold commercially and no one grows them. Therefore pampas grass seeds have not been fertilized -- ergo, no new plants. Fountain grass is quite different, in that it is an annual and commonly reseeds itself. Here are some articles on these ornamental grasses: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/pampas-grass/growing-pampas-grass.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/fountain-grass/tips-for-care-of-fountain-grass.htm