Quaking Grass
Briza maxima, commonly referred to as Quaking Grass, is a flowering herbaceous perennial species of grass. It is renown for its inflorescence which quivers in the slightest breeze and its large, grass-like leaves. This cool season grass is native to Europe, North Africa, and parts of Middle East. It flourishes in moist soils, however in drier soils can adapt and thrive. Quaking Grass is relatively low-maintenance and an ideal candidate for borders, cracks in pathways, rock gardens, and flower beds.
Quaking Grass is fairly drought-tolerant, and, in the wild, grows in partially shaded, drier conditions and soil. However, it will also grow in more moist soils in semi-shade or full sun when cared for properly. Water frequently to ensure that the top layer of soil remains moist and not too soggy or dry, which is especially important during summertime. Good drainage, along with appropriate pH, is needed.
Quaking Grass rarely needs more than six hours of full sunlight to thrive. When the temperature soars, the plant prefers hours of partial to full shade. It’s essential that the grass be kept in an environment with bright, filtered sunlight.
Quaking Grass grows successfully in both cooler and milder climates. In the United States, it is hardy to USDA zone 4 (minimum temperature of -20°F or -29°C). Temperatures of 80-85°F (27-29°C) are ideal for optimal growth, and temperatures higher than 100°F (38°C)may be stressful on the plant. The grass will go dormant in higher temperatures.
Quaking Grass will grow in both dryer and humid environments. It prefers relative humidity levels between 15-60%. In areas of too much humidity, it is susceptible to foliar wheat rust (Puccinia graminis) and can shorten the lifespan of the plant.
Quaking Grass prefers well-drained loamy soils and a pH of 6.0-7.0. Lighter soils create the highest production of flower stalks, but heavier soils with ample organic matter can also be used. Adding a mulch can keep the soil temperature down and provide more water-holding capacity while improving aeration.
Fertilizing Quaking Grass is beneficial to the growth of healthy foliage and steady flowering. Choose a balanced all-purpose fertilizer (10-10-10 or 20-20-20) or an organic fertilizer and time the application for early spring before the flower stalks appear. Avoid fertilizer with too much nitrogen which can cause plant foliage to languish. Water the plant and soil lightly after fertilizing.
Quaking Grass is typically not susceptible to too many diseases or attacking from pests. The plant's potential enemies include scale, spider mites, and aphids. If these pests show up, it’s best to spray with insecticidal soap and/or horticultural oils or neem oil. Applying a pesticide drenched in a preventive fungicide will also bring relief. Be cautious not to use too much of the solution as it can burn the leaves.
Quaking Grass may not require repotting every season, but it's a good idea to move to a larger pot after every two or three years when the plant outgrows the current container. Make sure to use soil that drains well and has adequate fertilizer. The repotting should be done in the beginning of spring right before the foliage starts to bud.
Pruning of Quaking Grass is not always necessary, but the brown and stressed foliage should be removed before it has the chance to spread and wilt the rest of the plant. Pruning the tips of the foliage a few times during the plant’s flowering season will encourage bushier growth and help reduce the number of flower stalks.
Mulching around Quaking Grass is beneficial and may include organic matter such as compost or pine needles. Mulching in the summertime will help keep the plants cooler and decrease evaporation in the soil bed. It is likely that weeds will also be suppressed when mulch is present.
Quaking Grass is the easiest to propagate through seed. It is recommended to broadcast the seed in the fall in a garden bed or in the spring in potting soil. The seed is small, so it should be mixed into a carrier material such as sand to help distribute them evenly. Keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge.
Quaking Grass generally doesn't require support. However, during its most vigorous stages of growth, staking is recommended to keep the stems upright.
Quaking Grass needs a cooler rest period during winter. When temperatures between 35-45°F (1.5-7°C) come in late fall and early winter, stop adding fertilizer and water the plant less often. The foliage may turn mauve or yellow and may appear to deadhead, however this is totally normal and some lilac color at the base of the plant is common.
Quaking Grass is not toxic to pets if ingested.
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