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Looking for prairie grass suggestion #865689

Asked April 24, 2024, 9:17 AM EDT

Looking to fill in are with tall prairie grass to provide privacy and backdrop. Intend on putting tall sunflowers in back and 4-6 ft grass in front. Prefer to seed rather than plant due to size of area. Moist soil and in zone 4. Thank you

Wright County Minnesota

Expert Response

Dear Jay, 

Thanks for reaching out; your site looks beautiful! Here are two grasses that you may wish to consider: 

1. Indian grass (Sorghastrum nutans), grows 3-6' tall, suited for your zone:  https://open.lib.umn.edu/nativegrasses/chapter/3-14-indiangrass-sorghastrum-nutans/

2. Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), grows 3-6' tall, suited for your zone: https://open.lib.umn.edu/nativegrasses/chapter/3-12-switchgrass-panicum-virgatum/ I will note that switchgrass can be aggressive, but it can also be beautiful in the fall (https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-news/five-native-grasses-great-fall-color)

Since you wish to start from seed, it may take 2-5 years for the plants to reach full size. Here is a helpful UMN Extension article with more information on planting and maintaining prairie grasses: https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/planting-and-maintaining-prairie-garden#common-prairie-plants-1644213

Good luck!

An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 25, 2024, 4:16 AM EDT

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