Prairie Dropseed Grass

$11.00

Prairie Dropseed Grass is native to most of the United States. It has flowering panicles of pink and brown that smell like hits of coriander that float above the grassy textured leaves in late summer. Foliage turns a shade of gold in fall. Prairie Dropseed Grass is a host plant to six species of butterflies and moths, including the endangered Poweshiek Skipperling and the threatened Dakota Skipper. Prairie Dropseed Grass is on the endangered species list in five states: Connecticut, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania. Pruning the plumes help keep the seeds from being dispersed with the wind. Prairie Dropseed Grass prefers a cutback once a year before the new growth emerges in the spring to keep a well-groomed look.

• Botanical Name: Sporobolus heterolepis
• USDA Zone: 3 – 8
• Average Height: 2′ – 4′
• Average Width: 2′ – 3′
• Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Prairie Dropseed Grass Planting/Care Instructions

Before planting, have your soil tested to see what amendments are needed. Click this link to check your frost dates: Frost Dates. Check the light preferences for your plant and choose your location accordingly.

When you receive your Prairie Dropseed Grass, soak the root ball in water for 20 minutes upon arrival before planting or potting. Gently break up the root ball. This will help the roots of your Prairie Dropseed Grass to grow out into the soil. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of your plant. Fill in the hole tightly with soil to avoid any air pockets. Add a bit of slow-release fertilizer to help new plants to grow quickly. Add the recommended amount per fertilizer instructions. Be sure to water your Prairie Dropseed Grass until it is established. In addition, pull weeds out when they appear. They take nutrients from the soil.

Additionally, certain plants may need staking. Whenever they become too heavy to stand on their own, add bamboo or fiberglass stakes for the plants to lean against or tie up for support.
Prune plants as needed to encourage growth. Always sterilize your pruners when pruning plants to prevent the spread of diseases. If you have trouble keeping up with your pruners, check out our locally hand-made leather pruner holster here.

Lastly, enjoy your Prairie Dropseed Grass and your time in the garden!