Controlling the spread (width) of grasses

Thanks @Plantminded.

I also meant to add that I like Miscanthos a lot, and have Zebrinus and Morning Light, the latter on your recommendation I think. The only drawback with those is the cutting down to the ground in February, where the Stipa doesn't need that and as it's in my front garden, it looks good all year round.

 

Yes, cutting down deciduous grasses can be laborious @lizzie27. I use a battery powered hedge trimmer for many of mine. Evergreens like Stipa gigantea can be left alone. I’ve just checked my books, “Designing with Grasses” was Neil Lucas’s first book, the new one is “Grasses for Gardens and Landscapes” which has a chapter on looking after grasses. It’s quite short though as they don’t need much attention or give much trouble .

 

Yes that's exactly what I do too. And then I sit down and cry!

 

Thank you @lizzie27! That sounds wonderful. I have already ordered one.

Regarding cutting down deciduous grasses, I only have 2 Calamagrostis Karl Foerster that I got less than a year ago, so I haven't had to go from a grown beautiful grass to nothingness just like that. I might shed a tear too @LunarSea

 

You’re doing it good @CostasK, giving it energy to perform better over the next year. I quite like seeing my borders cleared of grasses, it helps with planning moves, removals and additions. They do look quite ragged by February, then you get to see the quick recovery.

 

I know that it's good for the plants @Plantminded, but I will still miss them However, as you say, they will soon grow back.

 

The Spartina is a coastal grass @CostasK so it copes with drought as well as lots of water.
Mine is in a bottomless bucket/pot of some kind - can't remember exactly.
I have a flag Iris in a bottomless pot too, next to it, and that stops it from trying it's usual takeover bid.