When should I expect flowers?

Feather Reed Grass typically blooms in early to mid summer. The plumes will persist into the fall.

Can I force it to bloom?

You cannot force blooms, but ensuring it gets plenty of direct sun is the best way to encourage flowering.

Why is my Feather Reed Grass not producing flowers?

Check these first

Measure the hours of direct sun the plant receives.
Check if nearby trees or structures are casting shade.
Review your fertilization schedule.

Likely causes

Insufficient Light
Most likely
How to tell: The plant looks healthy and green but never develops flower stalks.
What to do: Move the plant to a location that receives full sun for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. If it is in a shaded spot, it will struggle to bloom.
Excessive Fertilizer
Possible
How to tell: The grass is very lush and tall but lacks plumes.
What to do: Stop using high nitrogen fertilizers. Feather Reed Grass prefers leaner soil and does not need heavy feeding.

When to worry

It is normal for young plants to take a full year to establish before blooming. Worry if a mature plant fails to bloom for two consecutive seasons.

Stopping it coming back

Plant in a full sun location and avoid over fertilizing the soil.

Not sure which one it is? Photograph your feather reed grass.

This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

When should I expect flowers?: Feather Reed Grass typically blooms in early to mid summer. The plumes will persist into the fall.
Can I force it to bloom?: You cannot force blooms, but ensuring it gets plenty of direct sun is the best way to encourage flowering.