Growing Sporobolus
Latin Name Pronunciation: spore-ob' uh-lus
Of approximately 160 annual and perennial species of Sporobolus growing worldwide, more than 25 are North American natives. They occupy habitat niches from ledges, woodland clearings, semi-deserts to floodplains over a wide geographical range. These fine-textured, deep-rooted, drought-resistant, mounding grasses begin growing in June and are at their best during the dog days of summer. Their adaptability, beauty, deer-resistance, ecological importance and contribution to biodiversity make Sporobolus invaluable low-maintenance plants.
Growing Sporobolus
Plant the crown just at soil level, or slightly above if you will be adding mulch. Spacing is indicated on the back of the plant tag. Sporobolus takes a few years to reach mature size, first putting its energy into growing roots. It’s worth the wait, for it can thrive for decades with little to no care. Once established, Prairie Dropseed’s deep and wide-spreading, fibrous root system makes it an exceptionally drought-resistant, resilient plant that grows in low-fertility conditions and good garden soil alike.Light: Sun
Watering: Low water needs; tolerates periods of drought well. Water deeply when planting and supplement as needed to establish.
Fertilizer: Do not fertilize. Grows well in low-fertility soil and excess nutrients can be detrimental. Mulch with previous season’s growth, sterile straw, or gravel, if possible. If mulching with wood products, apply sparingly and do not let it pile up around the crown.
Soil: Tolerates a wide range of soils including dry ones; best in moist, naturally fertile, well-drained soil.
Pests/Diseases: Generally pest- and disease-free, although voles may feed on crown. Excess moisture-retaining wood product mulch can foster fungal diseases.
Dividing/Transplanting: Dense mature clumps are difficult to divide and don’t need to be. Transplanting is best done in spring when plants are actively growing but may be done during dormancy.
End-of-Season Care: None required. Just let Sporobolus be its beautiful, dormant self in fall through winter. Its low foliage drapes over the ground in winter, essentially self-mulching, and new foliage pierces through the old in spring. Cut back in spring if you wish.