Grass - Pink Pampas (Cortaderia selloana ‘Rosea’) Organic, Non GMO - Grass

Grass - Pink Pampas Seeds (Cortaderia selloana ‘Rosea’) Organic, Non GMO - Grass

Perennial

Description:

Pink Pampas Grass is a show-stopping ornamental grass known for its tall, graceful plumes of soft pink that rise above its green foliage. Blooming in late summer through fall, this striking grass can reach heights of up to 10 feet, making it an excellent focal point or screen in any garden. Pampas grass is also drought-tolerant, hardy, and requires minimal maintenance once established.

Growing Instructions:

1. Stratification (Recommended):

• For optimal germination, cold stratification is advised. Place the seeds in a damp paper towel, seal them in a plastic bag, and refrigerate for 4-6 weeks. This simulates the winter dormancy period the seeds need to break dormancy.

2. Sowing Seeds:

• Indoors: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Use seed trays or pots with a well-draining potting mix.

• Outdoors: After all danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures are above 65°F (18°C), you can sow the seeds directly into the garden.

How to Grow Pink Pampas Grass from Seeds

1. Stratification (Recommended):

• Although stratification isn’t mandatory, it can improve germination rates. To cold stratify, place the seeds in a damp paper towel, seal them in a plastic bag, and refrigerate for 4-6 weeks. This process helps break seed dormancy, mimicking natural winter conditions.

2. Sowing Seeds:

Indoors:

• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Fill seed trays or small pots with a well-draining potting mix.

Outdoors:

• If sowing outdoors, wait until after the last frost and when soil temperatures reach at least 65°F (18°C). Ensure you choose a sunny, well-draining location in the garden.

How to Sow:

• Surface sow the seeds by sprinkling them on top of the soil. Do not cover them with soil, as Pink Pampas Grass seeds require light to germinate.

• Press the seeds lightly into the soil to ensure good contact.

• Mist the soil lightly to keep it consistently moist but not waterlogged.

3. Germination:

• Seeds will typically germinate in 2-4 weeks. Warmer temperatures around 65-75°F (18-24°C) will encourage faster germination.

• Keep the soil moist during this period, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to rot or fungal growth.

4. Transplanting:

Indoor Seedlings:

• Once seedlings are 2-3 inches tall and have developed strong roots, they can be transplanted. Before moving them outdoors, harden off the seedlings by gradually introducing them to outdoor conditions over a period of 7-10 days. Start by placing them outside for a few hours a day, gradually increasing the time.

Outdoor Spacing:

• When transplanting outdoors, space the plants 6-8 feet apart to allow them ample room to grow. Pink Pampas Grass can reach up to 10 feet tall and spread wide, so it needs space to thrive.

5. Sunlight Requirements:

• Full sun is essential for Pink Pampas Grass. It requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive and produce its signature pink plumes.

6. Soil Preparation:

• Pampas Grass prefers well-draining soil, though it can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy or loamy soil. Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils, as this can lead to root rot.

• You can amend the soil with organic matter (like compost) if needed, but Pampas Grass is quite hardy and can thrive in poorer soils as long as they drain well.

7. Watering:

• Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish a strong root system. However, once established, Pink Pampas Grass is drought-tolerant and only needs occasional watering during dry periods.

• Avoid overwatering, as it prefers slightly dry conditions once mature.

8. Maintenance:

• Pruning: Each spring, cut back the previous year’s growth to about 12 inches above the ground to encourage fresh, healthy growth. Be cautious when handling the plant, as its leaves can be sharp.

• Division: Every few years, divide the clumps to maintain their vigor and prevent overcrowding. Division is best done in late winter or early spring.

• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds, but be sure not to pile it against the plant’s crown, which can lead to rot.

9. Pests and Diseases:

• Pink Pampas Grass is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, good air circulation and avoiding overly wet conditions will help prevent any fungal issues.

Final Tips:

• Pampas Grass can become quite large, so be mindful of its placement in the garden.

• It’s important to wear gloves when pruning or dividing Pampas Grass, as its sharp-edged leaves can cause cuts.

Seed Count: 10