Introduction
Table of Contents
You may be having a part of your garden that you have been contemplating what to do with it. Why not consider growing Australian native grass. Have you heard about such grasses? Australian native grass is a specific species of grass used for gardening as well as landscaping. This grass is not expensive and makes a very gorgeous looking landscape. You can grow this grass successfully when you gather the necessary information on how to take care of it.
The Australian native grass resembles the ordinary grass. It is specifically used to bring out the beauty of the garden. It is usually found in Australia, the reason why many Australians have turned to it using this native grass. Take your time to cut back Australian native grass if you are to bring out the best in your garden.
Why Australian Native Grass
What makes Australian native grasses loveable is it adapts fast to the climatic extremity of Australia. This grass flourishes so well despite the prevailing weather and soil condition.
Other reasons include;
- It is strong, drought-tolerant, and hardy.
- You need minimal water when growing native grass.
- Australian native grass is beneficial to the environment.
- Minimal maintenance is required for this grass; hence you will not have to spend a lot of time on your lawn.
- This grass has vigorous root systems that can withstand bushfires that tend to hit Australia.
- Fertilizer is not entirely required for this native grass, for it is meant for low-fertility soil, which is prevalent in Australia.
Types of Australian Native Grass
The resilience of Australian Native grass has made it predominant in Australian land. People have invested in this grass compared to exotic grass because of its ability to withstand the harsh weather. There is a variety of Australian native grass types you can choose from, depending on your preference.
We will look into some of these Australian native grass types to help you make the best decision;
1. Red grass
Some may wonder why it is called red grass. Well, if you guessed it’s because it is red, you are right! This reddish green blade grass is highly drought tolerant. It can respond well to low fertile soils having the ability to grow to a height of 1.5 metres. The disadvantage of red grass is it does not do well under frost or cold snaps. The root system of this grass is the best, leading to vigorous growth. Therefore, if you are looking for grass that will be successful in soil conservation and landscaping, go for the red grass.
2. Weeping Grass
You can never go wrong with weeping grass if your idea is to have grass that can be easily mowed. It is a tufted perennial grass that grows well in moderately acidic soil. All year round, this grass will bring out green growth to make your lawn look outstanding. If you come from wetter areas, opt for weeping grass because it will do exceptionally well. The part that you will love the most is the weeping grass requires minimal maintenance. You can use this grass for your garden lawn, and it can also be used for roadsides.
3. Kangaroo Grass
The Kangaroo grass is one of a kind because you will find it growing in all areas of Australia. The deserts, not forgetting the slopes of the Alps, have become the home of this grass. It can grow to a height of up to 90cm, but you can cut it back. What you will notice about the Kangaroo grass is it nurtures in tufts. This means you will have to keep reseeding in instances where you will find bare patches. As this grass gets older, its color tends to change to maroon from green. In summer, it yields a stunning red seedhead.
4. Wallaby Grass
This type of Australian native grass thrives in temperate parts. It is resistant to frost and drought; thus, you don’t have to put a lot of energy into irrigating this grass. The Wallaby grass growth height is about 80 cm, even though you can cut it down to 5 cm without causing any damage. You don’t have to worry about how poor your soil is; this grass will still grow to be healthy and tough. Landscaping will do extremely well with the Wallaby grass in addition to horticulture and re-vegetation.
5. Spear Grass
Have you been facing fire mishaps, and all you desire is a grass that withstands fire? Then put your money on spear grass. It is the best grass that withstands fire and its effects. This grass is strong and durable, reason why it is termed as super grass. Spear grass grows excellently in both tropical and subtropical areas. It makes an attractive feature being that it grows to a height of 1 metre! You will also notice that it can survive in deprived soil conditions.
When to cut back Australian Native grass
Your Australian Native grass can look its best without maintenance. That is why you need to cut back Australian native grass to replenish its growth. It is paramount that you understand when to cut back Australian native grass because it is done during a specific time of the year.
Once you understand how to cut back Australian native grass, do it during the fall. This will encourage easy cleanup making your garden look tidier. Nevertheless, some Australian Native grasses do not need cutting back during the first few years of growth. Therefore, you can give your grass some years to grow so that when you cut back, you do so to half the height of the grass. Why? For the grass to grow afresh.
Other Native grass types require that you cut back any time depending on how unkempt they look. This case calls for cutting back thoroughly to get rid of dead growth. New and fresh growth will also be promoted once you prune Australian native grass.
How to cut Australian grass
Tools to use
Pruning shears
When you want to prune native grass, choose the time of day that works best for you.
Step 1 – Identify the grass that requires cutting back
Step 2 – Tie up dead stems to make the work easier
Step 3 – Use the pruning shears to cut back the grass to the desired height.
Note: The cutting tool you will use should be extremely sharp to avoid damaging the grass. Before using the cutting tool, ensure it is free and disinfected. This is to prevent the introduction of diseases to the grass. If you prefer using electric grass shears, here is a list of Top 5 Electric Grass Shears.
Why cut Australian Native grass
Cutting back Australian Native grass is highly crucial for various reasons.
- It prevents the infestation of diseases and pests.
- Your grass will be appropriately shaped to match your desired garden appearance.
- The grass will grow healthy, and it also encourages rapid growth.
- To encourage high productivity.
- The more you cut back, the denser, hardy, and compact your grass will get.
Conclusion
It’s no doubt that Australian Native grasses have thrived to become a phenomenal addition to garden landscapes. Note that knowing how to cut back Australian native grass is one thing, and maintaining that is what is crucial. Australian native grass will look lush and pretty with time if you take your time to cut back. The ability to make your garden look lavish and beautiful is enough reason to make you want to grow native grass. When you decide to cut back Australian native grass, alternate the shapes to give your garden a distinctive look. Not many people would think of growing native grass. Why not be different. Try it today and stand out from the crowd. This will be enhanced when you prune Australian natives grass time after time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can ornamental grass be rejuvenated?
Yes, by fertilizing it once you are done dividing. Do this during spring and water completely to enable the nutrients to get into the root system.
- When is the right time to prune native hedges?
The best time to prune native hedges is during autumn. That way, nesting birds will not be disturbed.
- Is there a time advised not to cut hedges?
It is not advisable to cut hedges when it’s nesting birds’ breeding season. Always ensure that there are no active nests whenever you want to cut hedges.
- Are pine trees bad?
Pine trees are not good because they contribute to air pollution. These trees produce gases that cause a chemical reaction with airborne gases.
- What will happen if I over prune a tree?
Over pruning leads to the reduction of foliage required for food processing of the plant. The act of pruning can lead to the death of some trees.
