My Pampas Grass Has Never Flowered

Question

My pampas grass is about 5 years old and it has never flowered. It’s supposed to be pink; last year I cut it right back and now it’s enormous, but  still no plumes.

Answer 1

It may be due to timing of pruning! These must be pruned in Spring, right as the grass starts to grow back. Pruning in winter will take away all protection of the plant.

If you have pruned right as new growth is coming back out, then it could be due to the nutrients present in the soil. Too much nitrogen, and not enough phosphorus and potassium will halt flowering, while producing an abundance of foliage. You can test your soil to find out what is missing, or what has just a little too much present.

This article will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/testing-soil.htm

These articles will help you to troubleshoot your flowering issue further: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/pampas-grass/growing-pampas-grass.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/pampas-grass/pruning-pampas-grass.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/ornamental-grass/no-plumes-on-ornamental-grass.htm