Swamp Grass Uses

Erosion Control

• Swamp grasses with deep roots can hold a hillside together during winter and spring rains or where springs or runoff water cause erosion. Landscapes with varying slopes and low spots benefit from

  shorter swamp grasses that form matts of roots, such as creeping wild rye (Leymus triticoides), which lives along streams in the wild. Low, dense grasses provide erosion control by lessening soil loss from wind as well as rain and other water run-off.

Weed Barriers

• Dense root systems also serve as weed barriers. Using swamp grasses can result in a saving of labor, time and resources when filling in a large, difficult area that will need little or no maintenance. Needs for fertilizer and other soil amendments, herbicides and expensive plantings are reduced or eliminated. Once established, swamp grasses' root systems and their thick top growth discourage most unwanted plants from taking hold.

Screens

• Tall varieties of swamp grass form screens to hide unattractive neighboring views and lessen street sounds. High varieties with a wide growth pattern discourage trespassing from human foot traffic as well as from animals. North American native switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) grows wide and above eye level into large mounds of dense blades topped with blooming sprays.

Focal Points

• Tall specimens also provide focal points in gardens and landscapes. A 6-foot, fluffy mound of switchgrass in full bloom, with the "panicles" swaying in the breeze and shimmering in morning or late afternoon light, makes a bold yet delicate statement. Plantings enhance ponds and water features. As singles or multiple plants, of one variety or across many families, swamp grasses make attractive companions to flowers in mixed beds. There are varieties to fill in space, whatever the size needed, that will thrive in conditions that suit blooming plants and vegetables.

Suitability

• With the abundance of native swamp grasses from which to choose, a gardener is assured of a supply of plants that will thrive in local soil types --- sandy or clay, alkaline or acidic, in sun or part

  shade, in local weather and seasonal variations. As a bonus, habitat and food for local butterflies, birds and beneficial insects are provided.

Craft Material

• In addition to practical and ornamental uses of swamp grasses in the landscape, the plants' seed heads make attractive, free craft materials. Sprays of seeds can be arranged on colored paper, glued in place and framed. Dried arrangements and wreaths will last through holiday seasons and can be set out for the birds later.