Planting Monkey Grass: A Guide to the Best Time to Do It Right

Monkey grass is a low-maintenance, evergreen plant that can add beauty to your garden all year round. It is commonly used for borders, mass plantings, or ground covers for slopes and erosion control. But as with any plant, the timing of planting can be critical for its success. In this article, we'll guide you through the best time to plant monkey grass.

Understanding Monkey Grass

Monkey grass, also known as liriope, is a herbaceous perennial that produces grass-like leaves that grow in clumps or mounds. Its flowers come in shades of purple, lavender, and white, and bloom in late summer or early fall. Liriope is a versatile plant that adapts to various soil conditions, light levels, and weather conditions. However, the growth rate and flowering performance depend on the environmental factors.

Seasonal Planting: When to Plant Monkey Grass

The best time to plant monkey grass is in spring or fall when the temperatures are mild and the moisture levels are moderate. In spring, the soil is warming up, and the plant is transitioning from dormancy to active growth. This is an ideal time to establish new roots and build up strength for the upcoming summer. In fall, the soil is still warm, and the air is cool, which reduces stress on the plant and promotes healthy growth.

It's possible to plant monkey grass in summer, but it requires extra care and watering to prevent the plant from drying out. Planting in winter is not recommended as the plant is dormant, and the soil is cold and wet. The cold temperature can damage the plant's tender roots and stunt its growth.

Choosing the Right Site and Soil

The success of planting monkey grass also depends on the soil and site selection. Monkey grass prefers well-drained soil that is fertile, slightly acidic to neutral, and rich in organic matter. The soil should be loosened to a depth of 8 to 10 inches before planting to allow roots to penetrate easily. If the soil is heavy or compacted, consider adding compost, sand, or peat moss to improve drainage and aeration.

Monkey grass thrives in partial shade to full sun, but it needs at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight to bloom properly. If you're planting monkey grass as a border or groundcover, make sure to provide enough space for the clumps to spread out. A spacing of 12 to 18 inches is suitable for most varieties. Avoid planting monkey grass near tree roots or other invasive plants, as it can easily get crowded out.

Planting Techniques for Monkey Grass

Planting monkey grass is relatively easy, and it doesn't require much effort or equipment. Here's how to do it:

Prepare the soil by removing any weeds, rocks, or debris.

Loosen the soil to a depth of 8 to 10 inches, and amend it with organic matter if needed.

Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the monkey grass.

Place the plant in the hole and backfill it with soil.

Water the plant well to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.

Spread a layer of mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Maintenance Tips for Monkey Grass

Once planted, monkey grass requires minimal maintenance to thrive. Here are some tips to keep it healthy and attractive:

Water the plant deeply and regularly during the first year to help establish the roots.

Fertilize the plant once or twice a year with a balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote growth and blooms.

Remove any damaged or brown portions of the plant to keep it looking neat and tidy.

Divide the clumps every 3 to 4 years to prevent overcrowding and promote vigor.

Watch out for pests and diseases, such as spider mites, nematodes, leaf spot, or anthracnose, and treat promptly if needed.

The Bottom Line

Knowing when to plant monkey grass can help you achieve the best results and enjoy its beauty and benefits for years to come. Remember, the best time to plant is in spring or fall, in well-drained soil with partial shade to full sun. With proper care and maintenance, monkey grass can thrive, spread, and enhance your landscape with its lushness and simplicity.