I over-winter m. dumosa in pots here in zone 8, along the fl coast. Depending on where you are in fl, you may have to watch for a severe cold, but you really should be fine growing in containers. It probably stays smaller and looks more controlled in a container, but there's nothing wrong with the wild look of this bamboo muhly grass. Trim it back partially mid-summer and let it flush out again. Then trim it again late winter. I would divide in early spring. Easier to divide plants from containers, so you have a plus there.

Here is a link that might be useful:

Do you think I should cut back even though I see new shoots coming up right now? How far back do I cut it?

I live in St Petersburg,btw.

I never thought of having to bring them in for the winter...those pots are incredibly heavy. I guess i could use a dolly.

thanks again.

You could cut back about 2/3 of it..or even take it down as far as 12-18" height. That'll get it flushing out vertical again. I've pruned ours back at almost anytime of year and had success here in the panhandle.

I wouldn't panic at all about potential cold in St Pete. Container growing brings you up a zone or 2, but sounds like they're in pretty large containers. No worries. It will be evergreen for you, so several prunings a year should help keep better form.

Very useful info and I'll try cutting back one of my muhlys and see how it goes...

Thanks again!