Why your yard needs ornamental grasses right now (and a horticulturist's favorites)

SALT LAKE CITY — They are the star of your late-summer yard. Ornamental grasses are about to hit their prime time!

Jessica Berrett said these plants will bring movement and structure to your landscape.

"They just pick up the slightest breeze, and you just get that fun movement that makes your garden really feel alive," she said. "It just adds a different dimension."

Ornamental grasses are also water-wise. They can thrive in Utah's hot, dry conditions making them a good choice for your yard. Berrett shared some of her favorites.

Switchgrass

Switchgrass tends to be more upright. It's structured while still looking light and airy.

"These come in a lot of different heights," she said. "They have these nice little airy seeds and just kind of add a nice upright texture."

Little Bluesteam

Depending on the variety, little bluesteam can range in height from compact plants to taller statement pieces.

"Some are as high as three and four feet. Some stay lower, below two feet," Berrett explained.

The blue tones bring in color even when flowers aren't blooming.

Blue Grama

Blue grama is a native grass that has interesting seed heads. It stays relatively compact while still giving your yard texture and movement.

"It's got a really cool seed head that almost looks like eyelashes," Berrett said. "Doesn't get too big, and it's very water-wise."

Feather Reed Grass

Feather reed grass is one of the most popular ornamental grasses.

"They look great in a row. They look great just punctuating things," Berrett explained.

Where to Place Ornamental Grasses

• Use an upright grass to create vertical structure.
• Repeat the same grass to create rhythm and continuity.
• Use a softer grass next to bold flowers for textural contrast
• Grasses are especially effective planted in masses

Leave Them Through Winter

"I love to not cut them back right away in the winter and leave them up," Berrett said.

The dried grass gives good bugs a habitat and provides food for birds. Plus, they still contribute texture and structure during the colder months.

"Having this texture in the fall and in the winter, it's very cozy," she said.

Berrett said to then go back in the spring and clean everything up.

"Come in and cut them down early in the spring before the new growth comes out so they look fresh again," she said.

Find more plant inspiration from Jessica Berrett on Instagram @plant.geek.

This story was adapted from a TV broadcast script using artificial intelligence. Every story, including those adapted with AI, is reviewed by a human editor before publication to ensure that KSL's editorial standards are upheld.