Old Faithful Switch Grass

• Speed: Moderate grower.
• Mature Growth: Reaches 5-6 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide, forming a tall, upright clump with a graceful, vertical form.

• Attracts: Birds are attracted to the seed heads in late summer and fall, while pollinators such as butterflies and bees may visit the flowers.
• Wildlife Resistant: Deer-resistant, making it suitable for areas with wildlife pressure.

• Foliage Season: Spring to fall, with winter interest from seed heads and dried foliage.
• Flowering Season: Late summer to early fall (August to October).
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-9

• Prairie or meadow plantings
• Pollinator gardens
• Borders and hedges
• Rain gardens or wet areas
• Winter interest

• Color: Blue-green foliage in spring and summer, transitioning to shades of yellow and tan in the fall.
• Form: Narrow, arching blades that form a tall, dense clump with a graceful, upright habit.
• Winter Interest: The seed heads and dried foliage remain attractive through winter, adding texture and structure to the landscape.

• Color: Light, airy seed heads with pinkish-brown tones.
• Form: Large, airy panicles that rise above the foliage, creating a cloud-like appearance.
• Bloom Time: Late summer through early fall.
• Fragrance: Not fragrant.

• Timing: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
• Method: Cut back the dried foliage and seed heads to about 6 inches above ground level to encourage fresh growth. Leaving the seed heads intact during winter provides both visual interest and food for birds.

• Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, Old Faithful® is drought-tolerant and only needs occasional watering during prolonged dry periods.
• Soil Moisture: Prefers moderately moist soil but can tolerate both wet and dry conditions, making it ideal for rain gardens or areas prone to occasional drought.

Full sun for optimal growth and flowering. It can tolerate light shade, but full sun encourages the best color and growth habit.

When to Harvest Seeds:

• Wait until the seed heads turn brown and dry on the plant (typically late fall)
  
• Seeds should easily separate when rubbed between your fingers
  

How to Harvest:

Cut the seed heads using garden shears once fully mature and dry.

Place them in a paper bag and allow them to air dry further for 1–2 weeks in a well-ventilated area.

Shake or rub the seed heads to release seeds.

Store seeds in a cool, dry, and dark location in a labeled envelope or airtight container.

• Uses for Harvested Seeds:
  
• Sowing for propagation
  
• Leaving them in the garden for winter bird forage
  
• Decorative use in dried floral arrangements

• Fertilization Time: Typically does not require fertilization in average to poor soils.
• Fertilizer Type: If necessary, apply a light, balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth.

• Mulching: Apply a thin layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid heavy mulching to prevent crown rot.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, Old Faithful® is highly drought-tolerant, thriving in both dry and wet conditions. It is ideal for xeriscaping, rain gardens, or low-maintenance landscapes.
• Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-free and disease-resistant, though it may occasionally experience rust or leaf spot in overly wet conditions. Ensure good air circulation to prevent these issues.

Wind-pollinated, with the seeds often dispersed by wind. The airy seed heads contribute to the plant’s wildlife value, providing food for birds in the fall and winter.

• Echinacea (Coneflower)
• Rudbeckia (Black-eyed Susan)
• Aster
• Sedum