I believe the brown foliage is more than likely a result of the whole planting experiance, the stress you put the plant through by moving it from its container to the ground. Most grasses (In your case Miscanthus sinensis "Zebrinus", or Zebra Grass) are quite hard to kill off ! They thrive, after becoming established, on neglect for the most part. I water mine only during drought conditions, and NEVER fertilize them. They will become floppy, more than upright. Since these are new plants, I would give them a good drink one a week or so if there's no rain, but relax, they will be fine. Remember the old adage, first year they sleep, second year they creep, third year they leap ! Next spring you should cut the foilage down to a small clump and it will grow back with little or no help. I've included a link to the spring cleanup process. good luck with your grasses, you will love them !

Blackie

Here is a link that might be useful: OG Spring cleanup

My Miscanthius Zebrenus was planted last spring. Turned over the winter beige, and I mulched it well. I didn't think it would overwintered on my NYC terrace in 24" insulated pot...but it's growing well.

Should I cut off the old grass? If I do, will it rot, when it rains?

Thxs, Bonnie

Bonnie,

The old grass should be cut back in the spring. Check the link I posted above and it will tell you how to do this. I would get rid of as much as i could now, without damaging the new growth. If you cut it completely back in the spring, the new growth will grow up through and around last years stubble. Hope this helps.

Blackie

You say you had a 24" insulated pot. How was it insulated? I ask this because I may need to do what you did to insulate a container. As to your question, I would say, to many people think ornamental grasses are fragile plants. Some may be, but I used to work for a park district years ago. There were many grasses that we would literally burn to the ground in late winter, and they came back well. It was easy and efficient, but one has to use some common sense! I am NOT recommending this! Just wanted to make a point. BTW: this practice has been eliminated by that park district due to the damage that was done to other plants.