Zebra grass (Miscanthus sinensis) was a perennial garden favorite for centuries, based on Floridata. This striking ornamental grass includes leaves that arch gracefully to the floor and change color in the fall, in addition to tall, sturdy flowers which endure throughout the winter. Zebra grass normally is a hardy perennial which will return every year, however just like any plant, it may not rise again if it sickens because of diseases or adverse environmental conditions.

Slow Climate

Many zebra grasses tolerate cold weather and warm temperatures very well, but only up to some point. The species is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 9, but a few cultivars vary from this a little bit. A few are hardy only to USDA zones 6, based on Floridata. Others, like Miscanthus sinensis “Variegatus” and Miscanthus sinensis “Morning Light,” are cold-hardy only to USDA zone 5. In addition, many cultivars battle to live in warm, humid conditions. It is possible your zebra bud didn’t return since the roots were murdered by a hard freeze, or by conditions which were too hot and humid. To prevent this next time, choose a cultivar right for the climate, or develop your zebra grass in a container so that it is possible to move it indoors when the weather becomes too hot or too cold.

Root Rot

In case your zebra bud sits in a depression in which water tends to collect, then it might develop root rot. If the roots decay away as a result of excessive water in the ground, the plant will die. Root rot also sometimes happens when a plant is grown in a container without any drainage holes, or because it was watered too often. Again, in the event of zebra grass, watering needs vary widely by cultivar. Some may tolerate having their roots in the water all of the time, based on Floridata, while some prefer soil on the dry side. In case your zebra grass grows in a always wet location, it’s possible it is one of the cultivars that doesn’t like soggy soil, and this may explain why it didn’t return. To prevent this in the future, plant your zebra grass in a well-draining location so that the crown stays just over the surface of the soil. Ornamental grasses should be grown in containers which have drainage holes.

Center Spouse Out

Some cultivars of zebra grass might become dangerous in some places. The ones who do not do this have clumping habits. Rather than spreading into nearby garden or turf beds, they sorts tidy, rounded mounds. This is desirable for a lot of reasons, namely because it wo not invade nearby areas, but it also may result in center die-out. This occurs when the center of the plant becomes too shaded by the surrounding leaves. To prevent this, cut the plant back entirely every winter. This will create vigorous spring growth, according to the San Jose Mercury News.

Improper Culture

Even the hardiest plants will die if they aren’t cared for properly. One significant consideration for the growth of zebra grass is sun. Most grow best in full sunlight, and a few may tolerate partial shade, although they may get thin and weak, but not one of them develop well in full colour. In case your zebra plant didn’t return, it’s possible it was not getting enough sunlight. Although moisture needs vary, all develop best if given regular waterings, based on Floridata.

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