Caring for Purple Love Grass: Tips and Tricks

Welcome to the world of ornamental grasses! If you are looking for a low-maintenance plant with year-round interest, then purple love grass (Eragrostis spectabilis) might be the perfect choice for your garden. This native North American grass is prized for its delicate texture, stunning purple flowers, and golden fall foliage. However, like any other plant, purple love grass needs some care and attention to thrive. In this article, we will share some tips and tricks on how to keep your purple love grass healthy and beautiful.

Choosing the Right Location

The first step in caring for purple love grass is selecting the right location for it. As a warm-season grass, purple love grass prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It can tolerate some drought and heat, but it also needs regular watering during the first few months after planting to establish its roots. Avoid planting purple love grass in shady or wet areas, as it may develop root rot or fungal diseases. Also, make sure to give it enough space to grow, as purple love grass can spread up to 2 feet wide.

Watering and Fertilizing

Once established, purple love grass requires minimal watering, as it is drought-tolerant. However, if you live in a hot and dry climate, you may need to water it once or twice a week during the summer months. Make sure to water deeply, so that the roots can absorb the moisture and grow deeper into the soil. On the other hand, avoid overwatering or letting the soil stay soggy, as it can cause the roots to rot and the plant to die.

In terms of fertilization, purple love grass doesn't need much. You can apply a slow-release granular fertilizer once a year in early spring or late fall, or use a liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks during the growing season. However, too much fertilizer can encourage excessive growth and reduce the plant's overall health and beauty. Therefore, always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and don't overdo it.

Pruning and Maintenance

Purple love grass is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it still requires some pruning and maintenance to look its best. In early spring, before new growth appears, you can cut back the old stems to about 2-3 inches above the ground to promote fresh growth and prevent the plant from becoming too woody. You can also remove any dead or damaged leaves and flowers throughout the growing season to keep the plant tidy and healthy.

If you want to propagate purple love grass, you can do so by dividing the clumps in early spring or late fall. Simply dig up the entire clump, separate the individual plants using a sharp knife or spade, and replant them in a new location. Make sure to water them well and keep them shaded for a week or two until they establish their roots in the new soil.

Pests and Diseases

Although purple love grass is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, it can still suffer from some common problems. For example, aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars can sometimes infest the plant, causing yellowing, curling, or browning of the leaves. To control these pests, you can spray the plant with a mixture of water and soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings.

On the other hand, some fungal diseases like rust, smut, or anthracnose can affect the foliage or stems of purple love grass, causing discoloration, wilting, or deformation of the plant. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering, improve air circulation around the plant, and remove any infected leaves or stems immediately. You can also use fungicides as a last resort, but make sure to choose an eco-friendly product and follow the instructions carefully.

Purple love grass flower

In summary, purple love grass is a beautiful and versatile grass that can add color, texture, and movement to your landscape. By following these simple tips and tricks, you can ensure that your purple love grass stays healthy and vibrant throughout the year. Remember to choose the right location, water and fertilize appropriately, prune and maintain regularly, and watch out for pests and diseases. With a little care, your purple love grass will reward you with its enchanting beauty and charm.

Purple love grass, gardening tips, ornamental grasses, landscape design, native plants