Pampas Grass - How do I make this more attractive?

Luchris

Luchris

What can I do with this ugly dishevelled Pampas? Can it be made attractive?  Will it revive?  I read that someone cut theirs right back.  Is that a good idea?  What exactly does "cutting back" mean?  Cutting it down to a couple of feet?

Obelixx

Assuming you want to keep it, feed it, water it, comb it (with a rake and wearing gloves) to remove old, dead foliage.

Some info from the RHS here - https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/details?plantid=2528 

Lyn

As Pampas grass goes, I think that’s quite a tidy one. I wish I’d never bought mine, but as Obe says, a comb through will improve it. 

hogweed

Or a match!

Hostafan1

You can take a hedge trimmer to them. 
I've rejuvenated one by taking all the loose stuff off , then start trimming the stems back a couple of inches at a time . You'll end up with a white stump about 18" high but it'll soon bounce back. 
The stem trimmings make great compost.
Or remove it and plant something nicer in its place.

valerieroberts

I have a large clump of golden oats probably stipa gigantic. The top is wonderful but the clump Looked as bad as yours. Around the base I have planted climbing  nasturtium. It had to be helped to climb but the large round leaves with the lovely orange flowers make it quite acceptable for me. Maybe a solution for you - digging out would be quite a job.

Lyn

Hostafan1 said:

You can take a hedge trimmer to them. 
I've rejuvenated one by taking all the loose stuff off , then start trimming the stems back a couple of inches at a time . You'll end up with a white stump about 18" high but it'll soon bounce back. 
The stem trimmings make great compost.
Or remove it and plant something nicer in its place.

I could put a nice orange dahlia in its place😀😀😀

Luchris

Thank you all so much for your suggestions.  I will try and revive it and I do like the idea with the nasturtiums.