Pampas grass 'Evita' Cortaderia selloana 'Evita' (PBR)

Water

Pampas Grass should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage a deep root system that sustains the plant during drought periods. When newly planted, water your Pampas Grass once a week with about 1.5 gallons per plant until it is established, which usually takes one growing season. After establishment, watering can be reduced to every two to three weeks, depending on the rainfall and temperature in your area, with the same amount of water. During hot, dry spells, weekly watering may be necessary. Always allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions to prevent root rot.

Light

Pampas Grass thrives in full sunlight, requiring at least six hours of direct sun per day. The ideal spot for planting would be an area with unobstructed exposure to the sun. Partial shade is tolerated, but it may cause the grass to grow less vigorously and produce fewer plumes.

Temperature

Pampas Grass prefers a temperature range between 70°F and 80°F for optimal growth, but it can tolerate temperatures as low as about 20°F and as high as above 90°F. However, extended periods of extreme cold below the freezing point can damage the plant. It is generally hardy in zones 7 through 11 in the United States.

Pruning

Prune Pampas Grass to remove dead foliage and to encourage healthy, fresh growth in late winter or early spring, just before new growth starts. Cut the foliage down to about a foot above the ground using sharp shears or a saw as this can promote a more vigorous plant. Annual pruning is sufficient for maintaining plant health and appearance.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

For Pampas Grass (Cortaderia selloana 'Evita'), the best soil mix is well-draining with a mix of loam, peat, and sand. It prefers soil pH ranging from 6.1 to 7.8.

Repotting

Pampas Grass typically does not need to be repotted often, as it is usually grown outdoors. Division every 3-5 years suffices to refresh the soil and manage size.

Humidity & Misting

Pampas Grass is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require specific humidity conditions for growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure full sun, large space, and well-draining soil for indoor Pampas Grass.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, and space generously outdoors.

• Hardiness zone

  7-11 USDA

Life cycle

Cortaderia selloana 'Evita', commonly known as Pampas Grass, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in the spring under suitable conditions, with warmth and moisture. Seedlings establish themselves with initial root growth and the development of foliage. As the plant matures, it develops long, sharp-edged leaves and forms dense tussocks. In its reproductive phase, which usually occurs in late summer to autumn, Pampas Grass produces tall, feathery plumes; in the case of 'Evita', they may be particularly showy. After pollination and seed set, the plumes dry and the seeds disperse, often with the aid of wind. In winter or adverse conditions, the plant may go dormant, with above-ground growth dying back, to re-emerge in the spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early Spring

• The most popular method of propagating the Pampas Grass 'Evita' (Cortaderia selloana 'Evita' (PBR)) is by division. Typically, this is done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. The process involves carefully digging up and separating a mature clump into smaller sections, each with several healthy roots and a few shoots. These divisions can then be replanted in well-draining soil, watered thoroughly, and maintained with regular watering until they are established. Dividing the clumps every few years also helps maintain the plant's vigor and can prevent overcrowding.