Heavy Metal Panicum Grass Plant

Heavy Metal Panicum (Switch Grass) Plant is one of the showier Panicum grasses. This slightly salt-tolerant ornamental grass has vivid, bluish-purple foliage that has a slight waxy covering, giving it a metallic look. The upright blades stand stiffly and are topped by classy, waxy, airy silvery-white blossoms that appear in later summer and remain nice-looking deep into the fall. The seed heads turn deep wine-red in late fall as the foliage turns bright yellow. What a show!

Planting Instructions:

• - Can be planted anytime soil temperatures are above 45°F

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 5.5-7.5, adaptable to various soil types but prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil
• - Enrich soil with organic matter to improve structure and fertility if planting in poor soil

Watering Specifics:

• - Water deeply at planting to establish roots
• - Once established, Heavy Metal Panicum is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support growth and maintain the upright form
• - Avoid excessive fertilization, as it can cause the plant to become floppy

Pruning and Training:

• - Cut back in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to tidy the plant and encourage healthy, fresh shoots

Additional Pest Management:

• - Heavy Metal Panicum is generally pest-free but watch for rust or fungal issues in overly wet conditions

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Hardy and tolerates a wide range of temperatures
• - Provide mulch in winter to protect the root zone in colder climates