Pacific Reed Grass

Planting

Plant Pacific Reed Grass in full sun to part shade in a location with good drainage - it tolerates standing water better than most grasses, but still needs soil that doesn't stay boggy year-round. This grass adapts to a variety of soil types, so amend heavy clay minimally and focus instead on drainage. Plant in fall or early spring to give it time to establish before summer heat.

After Planting

Water weekly through your first summer to keep the soil moist as it establishes; by year two, you can back off to moderate watering during dry spells. This is an evergreen grass, so leave it standing through winter rather than cutting it back - prune out any dead growth in early spring before new shoots emerge. The biggest mistake is overwatering once established; this coastal native prefers moist conditions during the growing season but doesn't need constant wet feet.

Birds

higTree Swallow

Nesting · Year-Round

Nests in coastal reed beds and marshes; April-July breeding season