Overwintering guide
How to overwinter giant reed grass
Winter watering
No winter watering needed in open ground. Containers only need water in long dry, frost-free spells.
The mistake that kills giant reed grass in winter
Cutting giant reed grass hard back in autumn "to tidy up". That removes the growth that shelters the crown, and on some plants removes next season's flower buds entirely.
More giant reed grass care
Overwintering giant reed grass — FAQ
Does giant reed grass need to come indoors for winter?
giant reed grass is hardy to roughly USDA zone 6 — winter lows around -23°C. That means it can stay outside all winter in most temperate gardens. giant reed grass is properly hardy and overwinters outside without fuss. Tidy away anything dead or diseased, apply a mulch over the crown to steady soil temperatures, and otherwise leave it alone — many hardy plants actually need a cold period to flower and grow well the following year. Save hard pruning for the right season rather than doing it in autumn.
When should I move giant reed grass for winter?
Tidy and mulch in late autumn; leave the plant undisturbed until spring.
How often should I water giant reed grass in winter?
No winter watering needed in open ground. Containers only need water in long dry, frost-free spells.
What kills giant reed grass over winter?
Cutting giant reed grass hard back in autumn "to tidy up". That removes the growth that shelters the crown, and on some plants removes next season's flower buds entirely.