Pepindale’s bare root material is grown in the sands of the British Columbian Sumas Prairie, an optimum growing environment for ornamental grasses. Because our bare root are grown in sand there is no need to wash the roots which we feel negatively effects viability

All Calamagrostis, Miscanthus, Molinia, Panicum, and select Pennisetum varieties are available.

They are dug from December to February, packed in plastic crates and peat moss, and cold stored until shipping between January and April.

Our generous divisions are a 1 gallon size while larger clumps are available in a 2 to 5 gallon size.

Ornamental Grass Bare Root Care and Planting

At Pepindale Nursery at Shipping Time:

All Bare root divisions are counted and packed as per your pre-booked order in fine peat moss to control moisture loss and add protection during storage.

Upon Arrival:

Your plants will arrive in a dormant state which can be held for many weeks in a dark cooler at 1-3° c. You may spot some white cottony mold on some varieties. This will disappear under higher temperatures and light. We recommend not washing off because we found that it has a negative impact on plant vigor. 

Planting for Success:

• Do not attempt to grow in early weeks at the cooler temperatures. For best results grow at 20°c or more until roots are established.

• Grasses generally enjoy a highly porous soil mix. They will not perform well if grown too wet.

• Fertilize at the same level as your other perennial crops. Bedding plant fertilizer levels will produce too much soft growth.

• Keep ammonium levels low and use a nitrate based fertilizer.

• Do not plant too low, keep the crown of the division inline with the top of the pot.

• Do not compact the soil too much during planting. Fill bottom of pot with soil, insert and spread out roots, add soil all around, hold the bare root top then give a tap 1-2 times only to compact soil. Top up with soil as needed. 

• Water in gently and keep moist.

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