Pygmy grass propagation

I only bought two pygmy grasses to begin with. They both grew to full size. One I divided last year to give to my mum. This year I divided the remainder.

Out of two plants I ended up with five in all. Here are some around the rainwater tank:

Propagating plants can be very economical, and dividing grass is the easiest task you can perform in the garden. All you need is a fork and sharp spade. Once you dig the plant out of the ground, you can divide it with the spade. I always have the fork handy, to skewer through the middle of the clump. The prongs go all the way into the ground and act as a holding device, as you cut it with the spade.

I also soak the root ball in a fish emulsion tea for at least 10 minutes, before planting back in the ground. It helps the poor plant recover from the stress of division. I cut all the foliage off before replanting too. It will resprout new leaves quicker.

I particularly like the pygmy grass (Pennisetum macrostachyum rubrum compacta) because it's seed heads are sterile, and it has a beautiful burgundy foliage in the garden. It's one of the hardiest plants I've ever encountered too!