Troubleshooting
Bush Muhly problems — and how to fix them
Bush Muhly (Muhlenbergia porteri) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Crown rot
The main killer in cultivation. Requires perfect drainage in all seasons. In any climate with winter rain or irrigation, plant on a mound or in a raised bed.
Poor performance in humid climates
This desert species struggles in humid, cool, or wet climates. It is best suited to USDA zones 7-10 in the southwest; elsewhere grow in a very sheltered, dry spot.
Frost dieback
Above-ground growth may die back in hard frosts below about -8°C. New growth emerges reliably in spring. Leave old stems on the plant over winter for frost protection.
Slow establishment
Desert grasses put energy into deep roots before producing showy top-growth. Do not overwater — trust the plant to establish on minimal water.
Browsing by deer and rabbits
More susceptible to browsing than some ornamental grasses in cultivation, despite being native. Protect young plants with wire mesh until established.
Prevent bush muhly problems before they start
Most bush muhly issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Bush Muhly problems — FAQ
Why is my bush muhly crown rot?
The main killer in cultivation. Requires perfect drainage in all seasons. In any climate with winter rain or irrigation, plant on a mound or in a raised bed.
Why is my bush muhly poor performance in humid climates?
This desert species struggles in humid, cool, or wet climates. It is best suited to USDA zones 7-10 in the southwest; elsewhere grow in a very sheltered, dry spot.
Why is my bush muhly frost dieback?
Above-ground growth may die back in hard frosts below about -8°C. New growth emerges reliably in spring. Leave old stems on the plant over winter for frost protection.
Why is my bush muhly slow establishment?
Desert grasses put energy into deep roots before producing showy top-growth. Do not overwater — trust the plant to establish on minimal water.
Why is my bush muhly browsing by deer and rabbits?
More susceptible to browsing than some ornamental grasses in cultivation, despite being native. Protect young plants with wire mesh until established.