Do not know how to upload photos. sorry
I am very surprised that it lasted that long! The lifespan of this grass is, usually, only around 10 to 15 years. You have done very well with the grass, but it is time to replant.
Last year my Pampas bush performed nicely with about 20 plumes. This year I don't see any plumes. The plant itself is doing well Where are they? Rick Stagecoach, NV Aug 15
Often, this has much to do with pruning. If it is not pruned, pruned improperly, or at the wrong time, then it will inhibit flowering.
These article will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/pampas-grass/growing-pampas-grass.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/pampas-grass/pruning-pampas-grass.htm
I have 2 major stands, one is doing great but full of old dead growth; the other seems to be "disappearing"...any help would be greatly appreciated! I love these plants but obviously haven't shown them enough love!
I can't see any problem with cutting it back now except that you won't have any nice plumes for winter interest. Pampas grass is a warm-season grass so it has already passed its growth spurt. Once the leaves start browning it is OK to cut them back. Many cut ornamental grasses back in fall to keep the garden tidy. Others like the winter interest so wait till just before new growth begins.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/pampas-grass/pruning-pampas-grass.htm
Hi. I planted my pampas when it was just a stick about two years ago, and although it is approximately 6ft tall and about the same wide, it has never had any plumes. I was wondering am I doing something wrong.
This article should help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/ornamental-grass/no-plumes-on-ornamental-grass.htm
This is the state it's left in. He says it will grow again. Do you think it's dead or out of control? Thanks.
Pampas grass really enjoys annual pruning in spring. It will grow and survive without pruning, but is much happier when pruned right before growth begins for the year.
Keep in mind that pampas grass only has a lifespan of about 10 to 15 years or so. If it is reaching old age, it may be withering out.
These articles will help you: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/pampas-grass/pruning-pampas-grass.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/pampas-grass/growing-pampas-grass.htm
That is an interesting trim your pampas received. I would pull back the outer brown grass stems and see if there is green inside. If you find none, I'm afraid it is dead. As you know, pampas, and all grasses, should be cut down in early spring. (The old stems make great mulch.) This allows sun to reach the tender new growth. On a plant that size, a power tool like a reciprocating saw may be needed.
to regrow I hit it with a heavy dose of Roundup, then covered it with a tarp the following day to allow the round up to fully be ingested by the plant. I'm thinking this will keep the plant from getting any sun or rain. It is now three months later and eve rything seems dead, how long can pampas grass remain dormant? Can it just be laying dormant and return next year?
It sure sounds like your strategy worked. With no green to do photosynthesis for an entire growing season, the roots have likely died. Add the RoundUp and I can't see any future for the pampas grass. It will take a number of years before the root mass deteriorates enough to plant something else in the area. You can speed this along by cutting into the mass with a sharpened spade, mattock or axe. Compost or soil conditioner over the plant may speed the process; however, don't expect to use the area next spring.
t 's September in Cleveland and I would like to know if I should plant them outside now or put in pots and bring inside until Spring ?!
Plant the grass outside now. It isn't too late. Going through winter dormancy triggers new growth in the spring. If your plants are just an inch or two high, cover them with leaves or straw after they have turned from green to tan. If you have a garage around 40F, leaving them in there in their pots is also fine. Remember to lightly water the pots on Christmas, Valentine's Day and the first day of spring. If the soil dries completely, the roots will die.