How to Care for Switchgrass

Plant switchgrass in a sunny location. The perennial prefers six hours of sun per day.

Spray the plant with a hose once a week or more often if the soil is dry during the first year of growth. Switchgrass can survive in drought-like conditions, so the soil does not need to be kept moist, but some moisture benefits the plant. Do not over saturate because you may cause root rot. After the first year, you can cut back to watering switchgrass only when it is hot and dry outside.

Fertilize the switchgrass once or twice each year. Apply slow-release fertilizer to the soil around the switchgrass in early spring. Follow the recommended rate on the package. Water the fertilizer to distribute the nutrients in the soil.

Prune the switch grass once every year. Switchgrass can grow to be several feet tall. Cut the plant down to 4 to 6 inches high in early spring to allow all parts of the plant to receive sunlight.

Apply herbicide around the plant any time weeds pop up. Switchgrass responds well to products containing simazine. Use 2 lbs. per acre in early May, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Clear out any plants or weeds that grow within 6 inches of the plant. Switchgrass needs space to grow and expand.

Mulch around switchgrass to keep reseeding down. The plants tend to reseed aggressively, but less new growth occurs in well-mulched gardens. Spread 2 to 4 inches of mulch around the base of each plant. The mulch prevents weed growth and retains soil moisture.