Troubleshooting
Silver Feather Grass problems — and how to fix them
Silver Feather Grass (Miscanthus sinensis 'Silberfeder') 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.
Miscanthus blight (Leptosphaeria)
Brown lesions on leaves in wet seasons. Cut back hard in late winter to remove old foliage; improve air circulation.
Failure to flower in cool summers
'Silberfeder' is one of the earliest-flowering cultivars but very cold, sunless summers may delay bloom. Site in the warmest position available.
Clump becoming hollow in the centre
Old clumps die out in the middle. Divide and replant every 3-5 years in spring, discarding the woody centre.
Self-seeding invasively
Seed can spread prolifically in some settings. Remove seed heads before dispersal if this is a concern; some cultivars are more invasive than others.
Lodging in wind
Tall plumes can be blown over in exposed sites. Site in a sheltered position or stake lightly if needed.
Prevent silver feather grass problems before they start
Most silver feather grass issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Silver Feather Grass problems — FAQ
Why is my silver feather grass miscanthus blight (leptosphaeria)?
Brown lesions on leaves in wet seasons. Cut back hard in late winter to remove old foliage; improve air circulation.
Why is my silver feather grass failure to flower in cool summers?
'Silberfeder' is one of the earliest-flowering cultivars but very cold, sunless summers may delay bloom. Site in the warmest position available.
Why is my silver feather grass clump becoming hollow in the centre?
Old clumps die out in the middle. Divide and replant every 3-5 years in spring, discarding the woody centre.
Why is my silver feather grass self-seeding invasively?
Seed can spread prolifically in some settings. Remove seed heads before dispersal if this is a concern; some cultivars are more invasive than others.
Why is my silver feather grass lodging in wind?
Tall plumes can be blown over in exposed sites. Site in a sheltered position or stake lightly if needed.