Mondo grass is a popular choice for creating borders, and why wouldn't it be? With its delicate blades and low-maintenance needs, it's a versatile plant that manages to thrive in a variety of conditions, including partial shade. It's even drought-resistant! Plus, it looks so good—whether in clumps and patches like ground cover or edging a pathway—we love recommending it to homeowners because it can help any garden and landscape look so refined. Thumbtack's 2024 Curb Appeal Trends Report highlighted that 62% of homeowners plan to tackle a landscaping project this year, making it the #1 project of the summer. Consider this your sign to make the most of this lush plant and learn how you can incorporate it around your property.
How long does it take for mondo grass to form a solid border?
Mondo grass, also known as monkey grass, fills in gradually. Depending on the spacing and variety, it can take anywhere from 1-2 years to create a solid and lush border. Be patient! It's worth it.
Can I plant mondo grass next to a walkway?
100% yes. Mondo grass is a great choice for edging walkways and sidewalks due to its low height and soft texture. That said, it's better to avoid using dwarf varieties in high-traffic areas, as they may be easily stepped on, biked on, and—hi to my neighbors with dogs—peed on. Opt for a taller variety like Ophiopogon japonicus 'Nigrescens' (Black Mondo Grass) for better visibility and durability.
Best Practices for Planting a Mondo Grass Border
1. Choose the Right Spot
Mondo grass thrives in well-drained soil, so assess your chosen location. While it tolerates some shade, at least 4-6 hours of dappled sunlight is ideal for healthier growth.
2. Prep Your Border
Mark the desired border with edging or string to visualize the layout. Clear the area of weeds, debris, and any existing plants.
3. Amending the Soil (Optional, but Recommended)
For best results, especially in areas with poor soil conditions, consider fertilizing the planting area. Mix compost or organic fertilizer (like 10-10-10 fertilizer) into the top 6 inches of soil to improve soil drainage and nutrient content.
4. Plan the Spacing For Your Mondo Grass
Mondo grass is often sold as clumps of grass. Decide on the desired spacing based on the mature size of your chosen variety. Dwarf mondo grass can be planted 4-6 inches apart. Space plants of larger varieties upwards of 8-12 inches apart.
- Dividing Clumps: Carefully separate dense clumps and tuberous roots into smaller sections with at least 3-5 blades and healthy roots. You can use a sharp knife to divide these feeder roots.
- Individual Plants: If using individual plants, dig planting holes slightly deeper than the root ball.
5. Plant and Water the Grass
- Place each clump or plant into the prepared hole, ensuring the crown (the base where the leaves emerge) sits slightly above the soil surface.
- Backfill the hole with loose soil, gently firming it around the base of the plant.
- Water thoroughly to settle the soil and ensure proper hydration. Keep the soil moist for the first month after planting, but reign back after that to prevent root rot. Once root growth is established, the plants require minimal care.
6. Mulching (Optional, but Recommended in Year 1)
Apply a thin layer (1-2 inches) of organic mulch around the base of the plants. This helps suppress weed growth, retain adequate moisture, and regulate soil temperature. As the grass fills out into the space in year 2, you may find that you need less mulch, or none at all.
7. Ongoing Care
Mondo grass is incredibly low-maintenance and generally drought tolerant; however, occasional watering during dry spells and light fertilization in spring helps to promote healthy growth. You can trim brown or overgrown blades for a neat appearance.
Can I divide existing mondo grass clumps?
Absolutely! Dividing established mondo grass clumps is a great way to propagate new plants and expand your border plants. The best time for division is early spring or fall when the plant is actively growing. Simply dig up a mature clump, carefully separate it into smaller sections with healthy roots, and replant them following the steps outlined above.
