How To Grow and Care for Dwarf Mondo Grass?

Source: Megan Hansel

You might think dwarf mondo grass is just another boring grass.

But you’re mistaken.

Dwarf mondo grass is not your typical lawn filler.

It’s a versatile, low-maintenance, evergreen plant that can transform your landscape.

Whether you need a border, a ground cover, or a container plant, dwarf mondo grass has you covered.

In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about this amazing plant and how to grow and care for it easily.

What Is Dwarf Mondo Grass?

Dwarf Mondo Grass is a slow-growing, evergreen perennial that belongs to the Asparagaceae family.

It’s a popular ornamental plant used as ground cover in gardens and landscaping.

The plant has a compact, tufted habit and lush green foliage that grows in clumps.

It grows up to six inches (15 cm) in height and spreads out to cover the ground in a dense mat.

Native to East Asia, Dwarf Mondo Grass is easy to care for and can thrive in various growing conditions.

It’s an excellent choice for areas with poor soil and is drought-tolerant, making it a versatile plant that can be used in various landscaping settings.

How To Grow Dwarf Mondo Grass?

Dwarf mondo grass is a low-maintenance and attractive plant that can be grown from seeds, division, or plugs.

Each method has its pros and cons, depending on your situation and preference.

Here are the steps for each method.

From Seeds

Growing dwarf mondo grass from seeds is a cheap but slow way to start the plant.

In spring or fall, you can sow the seeds in a moist and warm potting mix.

It may take several weeks for the seeds to germinate. You can use a heating mat or a sunny windowsill to help them.

When the seedlings are big enough, you can transplant them to the garden or containers, spacing them 6 to 12 inches (15-30 cm) apart.

You need to water them well and protect them from frost or heat.

From Division

Growing dwarf mondo grass from the division is a fast and easy way to propagate the plant.

You can divide the plant in spring or fall by digging up a clump and splitting it into smaller sections. Each section should have some roots and leaves.

You can replant the sections at the same depth as before and water them well.

You can also share some with your friends or neighbors who want to grow dwarf mondo grass.

From Plugs

Growing dwarf mondo grass from plugs is a convenient and reliable way to start the plant.

Plugs are small plants that are sold in trays or pots. They are ready to be planted in the ground or containers.

You can buy dwarf mondo grass plugs online or at your local nursery in spring or fall.

You can plant them 6 to 12 inches (15-30 cm) apart and water them well. They will establish quickly and fill in the spaces.

How To Care for Dwarf Mondo Grass?

Dwarf mondo grass is a low-maintenance plant that does not require much care once established.

However, there are some things you can do to keep it healthy and beautiful.

Here are some tips for caring for dwarf mondo grass.

Watering Dwarf Mondo Grass

Dwarf mondo grass needs regular watering during the first year to help it develop a strong root system.

After that, you can water it only when the soil feels dry or during dry periods.

You can check the soil moisture by inserting your finger into the soil up to the second knuckle.

If it feels dry, water it thoroughly until it drains out of the bottom of the pot or the ground.

Fertilizing Dwarf Mondo Grass

Dwarf mondo grass needs a light feeding once a year in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.

You can use a granular or liquid fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (10-10-10).

Follow the label instructions for the amount and frequency of application. Do not overfertilize, which may cause excessive growth and reduce its cold tolerance.

Pruning Dwarf Mondo Grass

Dwarf mondo grass benefits from a light pruning in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged leaves and refresh their appearance.

You can use a lawn mower, shears, or scissors to cut it to about 2 inches (5 cm) high. This will encourage new growth and make it look neater.

Mulching Dwarf Mondo Grass

Dwarf mondo grass can benefit from a layer of organic mulch around its base to help retain moisture and prevent weeds.

You can use any organic matter, such as compost, bark, or pine needles.

Apply a 2 to 3-inch (5-7.5 cm) layer of mulch around the plant, leaving some space around the stem.

Do not pile up the mulch too high or too close to the stem, as this may cause rotting or fungal diseases. 

Possible Problems With Dwarf Mondo Grass

Dwarf mondo grass is generally pest and disease free, but it may occasionally suffer from some problems.

Slugs and Snails

These mollusks may feed on the leaves and stems of dwarf mondo grass, leaving holes and slime trails.

You can control them by using baits, traps, barriers, or natural predators such as birds or frogs.

Scale Insects

These tiny insects may attach themselves to the stems or leaves of dwarf mondo grass and suck out their sap, causing yellowing or wilting.

You can control them by pruning off the infested parts or spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Root Rot

This fungal disease may occur if the soil is too wet or poorly drained, causing the roots to decay and the plant to wilt or die.

You can prevent it by improving soil drainage and avoiding overwatering.

Leaf Spot

This fungal disease may cause brown or black spots on the leaves of dwarf mondo grass, especially in humid or wet conditions.

You can prevent it by providing good air circulation and removing any infected leaves.

Conclusion

Dwarf mondo grass is a wonderful plant for your garden.

It is easy to grow, beautiful to look at, and low-maintenance to care for.

You can start it from seeds, division, or plugs and enjoy its green leaves and cute flowers all year round.

Dwarf mondo grass can fit in any space and style of garden and can handle different weather and soil conditions.

Following the steps in this article, you can grow and care for dwarf mondo grass like a pro and have fun with it.