They are virtually pest-free. Many ornamental grasses thrive in Vermont, including blue oat grass, switchgrass, silver grass, fescue, maiden grass, flame grass, ribbon grass, sedge, tufted hair grass, and moor grass. Grasses can be planted at any time during the growing season if they have been grown in containers although spring or early summer is optimal. If you plant in the fall, be sure to water the grass well to help establish the root system. Work some organic matter into the root zone to improve water-holding capacity and oxygen levels.
Different grasses grow at different times of the year.
These grasses go dormant in autumn, adding winter interest to the garden. To keep ornamental grasses looking lush, leave the foliage on the plant throughout the winter. Trim it back to about four to six inches above soil level in the spring, just before or as the new season's growth begins to emerge. This makes the plant more attractive and encourages new growth. If the center of the grass shows little or no growth even though the plant is thriving, it's time to divide the grass.