Darrell Blackwelder

September 10, 2001

A few years ago if ornamental grasses were mentioned as a landscape element most could think of only a few different species, mainly pampas grass or possibly zebra grass. However, in the past few years, the ornamental grasses have become a premier and highly effective accent plant material in the landscape.

Ornamental grasses are available in a vast array of sizes, textures and colors ranging from the coarse textured striped zebra grass to the fine bladed dwarf mule grass. Over 65 different species of grasses are now available for use in the landscape.

Why have ornamental grasses become so popular? The major reason is the ease of growth and the multipurpose usage in the landscape.Ornamental grasses have the ability to survive dry, sunny locations while providing a variety of color and textures. Late summer and early fall when most accent perennials and annuals are waning, ornamental grasses are at their peak with colorful plumes. Plumes of different colors and textures add much needed interest to the landscape at this time of year just before fall leaf color arrives.These herbaceous perennials integrate well with woody ornamentals as well as perennials and summer annuals.Adding these plants as accents adds an interesting combination of color, texture and form in the landscape.

Bill and Nancy Oakley of southern Rowan County became so interested in ornamental grasses a few years ago that he started his own ornamental grass nursery, Grass Creek. Oakly has also incorporates much of the plant material of his ornamental grass nursery into an "event garden" which is located on Highway 150 just before reaching the Iredell County line.Over 65 species of grasses are incorporated into this landscape and event garden.Oakly has been propagating and building stock for 3 years. His landscape effectively uses his ornamental grasses in a multitude of situations around the home including sun and partial shade.

Call Oakley at --------------to arrange a visit to this wonderful display of grasses and ornamentals.