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Shenandoah Switch Grass
Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah'
Shenandoah Switchgrass is prized for its vibrant red-tinted foliage and airy seed heads, adding year-round interest and texture to landscapes. This drought-tolerant, low-maintenance ornamental grass thrives in full sun and a variety of soil conditions, making it perfect for borders or naturalistic plantings.
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Panicum Shenandoah Switch Grass for Sale Online
Shenandoah Switch Grass grows in average, medium to wet soils in full sun to part shade. Tolerates a wide range of soils, including dry ones, but prefers moist, sandy, or clay soils. Will grow in part shade but begins to lose its columnar form in too much shade, growing more openly and possibly falling over. Cut back clumps to the ground in late winter to early spring.
Shenandoah Switch Grass features some of the best burgundy-red foliage of the many panicum cultivars available in commerce. Foliage emerges bluish-green but rapidly turns burgundy-red (by late June) to form a compact, narrow, erect, 3' tall clump of foliage topped in summer by finely-textured, reddish-pink flower panicles which hover over the foliage like an airy cloud. Panicles turn beige as the seeds mature in fall, with the seed plumes persisting well into winter. Foliage also turns beige in fall and provides good winter interest.
Shenandoah Switch Grass is best massed or in groups, Perennial borders, meadows, wild gardens, or naturalized areas. Native to North America, this grass is perfect for any garden. Ideal for use in rain gardens and provides winter interest in any situation. Tolerates all types of soil. It prefers full sun to bring out the best red color.
| Hardiness Zone: | 4-9 |
|---|---|
| Mature Height: | 4 to 5 Feet |
| Mature Width: | 2 Feet |
| Sunlight: | Full sun |
| Water Requirements: | Average to wet |
| Selling Points: | Erosion control, native, deer resistant, drought tolerant, salt tolerant, fall interest |
How to Care for Shenandoah Switch Grass
Before you buy Shenandoah Switch Grass, make sure to read about the recommended care instructions to keep this plant healthy and thriving.
How do I plant Shenandoah Switch Grass?
To plant Shenandoah Switchgrass, choose a location that receives full sun for at least 6-8 hours a day, as this ornamental grass thrives in bright light. Shenandoah Switchgrass is adaptable to a variety of soil types, including clay and sandy soils, but it prefers well-drained soil for optimal growth. Start by digging a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the plant in the hole, making sure the crown is level with the soil surface. Backfill with native soil and water thoroughly to settle the roots. Space the plants about 2-3 feet apart to allow for their mature size, as Shenandoah Switchgrass can grow up to 4 feet tall and wide. After planting, apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the Shenandoah Switchgrass to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Water the grass regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system, especially during dry spells. Once established, this grass becomes drought-tolerant and requires minimal maintenance, making it an excellent choice for low-water gardens or naturalized landscapes. With its stunning red-tinted foliage and airy seed heads, Shenandoah Switchgrass adds both texture and visual interest to your garden year-round.
What type of fertilizer is recommended for the Shenandoah Switch Grass?
For Shenandoah Switchgrass, it’s best to use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with a formulation like 10-10-10 or 12-4-8 to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage. Apply the fertilizer in early spring, just as new growth begins, spreading it evenly around the base of the plant. Be sure to water thoroughly after applying the fertilizer to help it absorb into the soil and reach the roots. This will encourage strong, upright growth and enhance the beautiful red hues in the foliage that make Shenandoah Switchgrass so popular in landscapes. While Shenandoah Switchgrass is relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in poor soils, fertilizing once a year can improve its overall performance, especially in nutrient-deficient areas. Avoid over-fertilizing, as too much nitrogen can lead to excessive leafy growth at the expense of the plant’s ornamental seed heads. For an organic option, you can also top-dress the plant with compost or well-rotted manure in early spring. By following these guidelines, your Shenandoah Switchgrass will remain healthy, with vibrant color and strong growth throughout the growing season.
How often do I water Shenandoah Switch Grass?
During the first growing season, Shenandoah Switchgrass requires regular watering to help establish a strong root system. Water deeply once or twice a week, especially during dry periods, ensuring that the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and reduce the need for frequent watering. Once the plant is well-established, usually after the first year, it becomes highly drought-tolerant and requires much less frequent watering. After the first year, Shenandoah Switchgrass generally only needs supplemental watering during extended dry spells or periods of extreme heat. In most climates, natural rainfall will be sufficient to keep the plant healthy. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can lead to root rot and weaken the plant. By allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, you help promote deeper root growth, which strengthens the grass’s drought tolerance. With proper watering practices, Shenandoah Switchgrass will thrive, showcasing its vibrant red foliage and graceful seed heads throughout the growing season
How do I prune my Shenandoah Switch Grass?
To prune your Shenandoah Switchgrass, the best time is in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to cut the grass back to about 3-6 inches above the ground. This allows the plant to rejuvenate and encourages healthy, vigorous growth in the upcoming season. Pruning also helps maintain the plant's neat, clumping shape and ensures that the fresh, vibrant green blades emerge without competition from last year’s dead foliage. Be sure to remove any dead or damaged stems during this time for a cleaner, more polished appearance. Pruning Shenandoah Switchgrass annually not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also promotes better air circulation, which reduces the risk of fungal diseases. Once the plant is pruned, new growth will appear in spring, followed by its signature red-tinted foliage and airy seed heads in late summer. For the rest of the year, Shenandoah Switchgrass requires little to no additional trimming, making it a low-maintenance option for any landscape. With proper pruning, this ornamental grass will remain healthy and continue to provide year-round beauty and texture to your garden.
