Is burning pampas grass the best way to rejuvenate it and are there alternative methods?
Some gardener’s dislike it and think that all ‘Pampas grass’ (Cortaderia selloana) should be burnt! However this technique can’t be recommended as the new growth can be damaged, hedgehogs and over-wintering insects hibernate among the leaves and the dry leaves burn ferociously. This method was first used to check the spread in its native habitats in Argentina, Chile and Brazil to avoid coming into contact with its sharp bladed leaves. Pampas grass benefits from a hard annual pruning, in poorer soils it can be done as needed every two or three years, cutting it back as hard as possible in late winter or early spring without damaging the new growth and combing out remaining leaves. A thick coat, goggles and gloves are essential; a long handled hedge trimmer is useful if you have one too. Once the area is cleared, remove any weeds and mulch over the surface with a thick layer of well rotted organic matter or gravel.
