Switch
grass is also grown for its ornamental value. Switch grass
is a warm season perennial that waits until summer to put
on its top growth. The rhizomes are in active growth from
late winter through mid-spring, but the top stays dormant
until the soil warms up. Switch grass turns a nice pale yellow
in the fall, but some cultivars have been selected for more
striking colors that add to the garden landscape.
Switch grass can be used to add fall color to naturalistic
borders and woodland-edge gardens. It is also a great wildlife
plant. Switch grass holds up well under heavy snow and provides
good fall and winter cover for rabbits and other small mammals,
ducks, pheasants, and quail.
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| Ornamental
switch grass is dense, with an upright growth habit. The plant
will attain a height of 3-7' when in flower. The green to
blue-green foliage takes on a beige color for winter. The
light, airy flower panicles vary in color from green to pink.
Switch grass will bloom in late July or early August. The
foliage and flowers are effective in both fresh and dried
arrangements. Switch grass is adaptable in wet or dry soils;
the more moisture, the taller it will grow. Too much shade
will reduce the intense fall color.
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