In the early stages of planting, avoid areas that are completely sunny, as this will likely dry out the plant. If you’re looking to show off the flowers in this plant, consider replanting every year, keeping the spikes short, and keeping it in a container or raised bed rather than planting it in those hard-to-reach areas. [2] X Research source Do companion planting with mondo grass. Liriope is a similar looking plant and compliments planting with mondo grass.
Test your soil by digging a hole that is at least 12 inches (30 cm) wide by 12 inches (30 cm) deep. Fill the hole with water and let it completely drain. Refill the hole with water, this time keeping an eye on the rate of drainage. Well-drained soil will drain at a rate of about 1 inch (2. 5 cm) per hour. [3] X Research source If the soil is not well-drained, use compost to improve your soil’s drainage, or find another spot to plant the mondo grass.
Compost consists of organic matter and is designed to feed the soil. Coffee grounds, egg shells, leaves, and fruit peels are easy and accessible ingredients to use to start your own compost pile. [4] X Research source
Mondo grass is typically transplanted, rather than grown from a seed, so don’t waste time looking for a small packet of seeds. You’ll be purchasing a plant that is already grown. If you’re transplanting grass from one area of your yard to another, be careful to keep the roots of the plant in tact when you remove it from the ground. Use a tool to scoop the tufts out rather than trying to rip them from the ground.
These holes will give the roots room to grow without burying the grass too far below the surface.
Remember that tufts should be no larger than 3 inches (7. 6 cm) wide, or they won’t fit properly in the planting holes.
If it feels like you’re cramming the tufts into the holes, remove small bunches from the tufts until they can be comfortably placed in the holes. Tamping the soil around the tufts helps remove air pockets and will ensure proper water drainage. [8] X Research source
Shredded bark is the most common type of mulch and a fine choice for your mondo grass. You can purchase it anywhere that sells gardening supplies. [9] X Research source Ophiopogon planiscapus, more commonly known as black mondo grass, is also an option to edge the area. However, if you’re planting your grass in a heavily shaded area, don’t expect the dark leaf color in the black mondo grass. It will likely stay a shade of green. [10] X Research source
Before watering, feel around the base of the plant to see if the soil is dry. If it is, water it. Mondo grass is low maintenance. You’ll only need to water it when you see signs of browning or wilting after the grass completely fills in.
You can use compost to maintain the color and health of your mondo grass throughout the spring and summer. Be careful to not add too much compost. Add no more than 1 inch (2. 5 cm) per spring/summer after the first year, especially if you’re using manure-based compost. It is higher in phosphorus than plant-based compost, and can be harmful to your plant in excess. [12] X Research source
Look for organic fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These are what really help the grass thrive. [14] X Research source
When cutting mondo grass, make sure your mower blades are sharp enough and be careful to not scalp the growth. Make sure your mower is set high. [15] X Research source
