What to plant in September - Grasses

Ornamental Grasses: the perfect September addition to your garden

Ornamental grasses are a fantastic, low-maintenance way to add texture and movement to your garden. Whether you're looking for a compact variety for a container or something more substantial to complement your borders, their flowing foliage and elegant flower heads are sure to impress. September is an ideal time to consider planting these versatile plants, and our Garden Centre offers a wide selection for you to explore.

Why ornamental grasses are so popular

Over the past decade, ornamental grasses have gained popularity in UK gardens, largely due to the rise of "prairie planting" - a naturalistic, low-maintenance style that showcases flowing drifts of grasses and perennials. Grasses fit this trend perfectly, offering structure and interest with minimal effort.

Not only are many varieties easy to care for, but they also thrive in pots or containers, making them adaptable to gardens of any size. Most ornamental grasses are perennials, providing year-round beauty and movement. Additionally, they attract beneficial insects, making them a great choice for environmentally conscious gardeners.

When and where to plant

September is the perfect month to plant ornamental grasses, particularly cool-climate varieties like Stipa, Deschampsia, and Festuca. These varieties prefer full sun and well-drained soil. If you're planting warm-climate grasses like Pennisetum or Miscanthus, be mindful of early frosts and wait until spring if needed. Always check the plant label for specific care instructions or consult one of our garden experts.

How to plant for success

Once you've chosen your grass, plant it as soon as possible. Prepare the soil by removing weeds and ensuring good drainage. Dig a hole slightly larger than the plant's container, loosen the roots if they’ve become root-bound, and position the plant so its base sits level with the surrounding soil. After planting, press the soil down firmly and water well.

For best results, resist the temptation to plant grasses too closely. Give them space to thrive, and they'll reward you with a stunning display year after year.

Stop by our Garden Centre this September to find the perfect ornamental grass plants for your garden!

Our pick of 5 great grasses or sedges available at the Garden Centre:

What's the difference.  Grasses, have round, hollow stems with nodes and thrive in sunny, well-drained areas. They are more commonly used for lawns, borders, and ornamental features in a variety of soils. Whereas, Sedges have triangular, solid stems and prefer wet or shaded areas, making them perfect for erosion control in moist garden spots.