You can definitely bring purple fountain grass inside for the winter. This is a great way to protect the plant from freezing temperatures and ensure its survival until spring. As an avid gardener and landscaping enthusiast, I have personally brought purple fountain grass indoors during the winter months and have had great success with it.
To start, you will need to dig up the purple fountain grass from your garden or outdoor container. The roots of this grass are relatively wide and shallow, which makes it easier to transplant into a container for indoor care. When digging up the grass, be sure to dig several inches deep to ensure you get a good amount of the root system.
Once you have dug up the grass, it’s time to prepare it for indoor living. The first step is to choose a suitable container for the plant. Make sure the container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. Additionally, select a container that is large enough to accommodate the root system and allows for growth throughout the winter.
Next, fill the container with well-draining potting soil. You can mix in some compost or organic matter to enrich the soil and provide nutrients to the plant. Place the purple fountain grass in the container and fill in any gaps with soil, ensuring that the crown of the plant is level with the soil surface.
After planting, water the grass thoroughly to help settle the soil and ensure proper hydration. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can also lead to root rot. Throughout the winter, water the grass when the top inch of soil feels dry. This will help maintain proper moisture levels for the plant.
Purple fountain grass prefers bright, indirect light, so place the container in a location that receives adequate sunlight. A south-facing window or a spot near a well-lit area in your home would be ideal. If natural light is limited, you can supplement with artificial grow lights to ensure the plant receives enough light for photosynthesis.
Indoor temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C) are ideal for purple fountain grass. Try to avoid placing the plant near drafty windows or heating vents, as these can cause temperature fluctuations that may not be favorable for the grass.
During the winter months, purple fountain grass enters a period of dormancy. This means that its growth will slow down, and it may not require as much fertilizer as during the growing season. However, you can still feed the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to provide it with essential nutrients.
Keep an eye out for any signs of pests or diseases, as indoor plants are not immune to these issues. Inspect the leaves and stems regularly for any unusual spots, discoloration, or insect activity. If you notice any problems, treat them accordingly with appropriate organic or chemical methods.
In terms of pruning, you can trim back any dead or damaged foliage to maintain the plant’s appearance. However, avoid heavy pruning during the winter, as the grass is in a resting phase and may not recover as quickly.
Come spring, when the risk of frost has passed and temperatures start to warm up, you can gradually reintroduce the purple fountain grass to outdoor conditions. Start by placing the container in a sheltered spot outdoors for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the time spent outside over the course of a week or two. This will help acclimate the plant to the outdoor environment and prevent shock.
Bringing purple fountain grass indoors for the winter is a great way to protect it from freezing temperatures and ensure its survival until spring. By following the steps mentioned above, you can successfully transplant the grass into a container, provide it with the necessary care, and enjoy its beauty indoors throughout the winter months.
