Reed or Spanish reed or giant reed grows particularly well at the edge of the pond. Find out here what to consider when planting and caring for them.
The giant reed (Arundo donax) comes into its own at the edges of large bodies of water. The plant is one of the largest native grasses in Europe. The giant reed can grow up to four meters tall. You can counteract uncontrolled propagation by creating a rhizome barrier. The bizarre plants also feel particularly at home in a swamp bed.
Pipe reed - origin and use
It is assumed that the original homeland of the reed is in the Near East. The plant has been widespread throughout the Mediterranean region since ancient times and is used in a variety of ways. The lush panicles of flowers in silvery to violet nuances are an eye-catcher. In our latitudes, however, the giant reed rarely flowers.
Today's distribution area extends from the Mediterranean region through the Azores and Canary Islands to north-west Africa. The plant prefers to grow on river banks or along ditches. Wild deposits can also be found north of the Alps.
Pipe tube - special features
The pole tube can be used, similar to bamboo. This is how the first inhabitants of Italian territory used the plant to build their homes. The use for the production of hobby horses as children's toys has also been handed down. In South America, panpipes are made from reeds.
It is still common today to make reeds for clarinets, oboes, saxophones or bagpipes from the stems of the reed. The mouthpieces of clarinets and oboes are often made from sweet grass stalks. The reed leaves are also often used to weave baskets or mats.
| Reed Reed / Spanish Reed / Giant Reed (Arundo donax) | |
|---|---|
| Growth: | straight upright, arching, inclined, rhizomatous, reedy |
| Growth: | 300 - 400 cm |
| Growth: | 200 - 300 cm |
| Flowering: | July - August |
| Location: | Sun |
| Floor: | fresh, moist, rich in humus, rich in nutrients |
Plant Reeds
➔ Find the right location
For the pile reed, which is also known as the Spanish reed, a warm, sunny and wind-protected location should be found near the water. The lushly growing plant is only recommended for the design of larger garden ponds. When planting, a sufficient distance to the shore is important.
» Tip: A rhizome barrier should be installed to prevent the uncontrolled spread of the reed.
In addition to cultivation in a separate swamp bed, planting in a tub is also possible.
➔ Choosing the ideal substrate
The giant reed thrives best in a nutrient-rich, deep substrate. Under no circumstances should the soil dry out. A consistently moist substrate is ideal. At times, even waterlogging does not pose any danger to the pile tube.
➔ Planting reeds - step by step
The reed is best used in large gardens. Larger garden ponds can be upgraded in this way. Bluegrass needs enough space and a planting distance of about one meter.
The planting in detail:
- Select Location
- Remove stones and weeds from the ground
- Dig the planting hole generously
- Insert rhizome barrier
- Insert plant in the middle
- Fill substrate
- Press the earth well
- Water the plant generously
» Tip: Sturdy work gloves should be worn when planting the giant reed. The edges of the grass can cut fingers and hands.
The post reed is also popular as a privacy screen in bucket culture. Use sufficiently large planters. A volume of 30 liters and more is recommended. Plants need plenty of water and nutrients in pots, as the substrate is used up much faster in a confined space than outdoors.
Watering the post pipe correctly
After planting, the ornamental grass needs plenty of water. Waterlogging is better tolerated by the plants than prolonged drought. If the drought persists, older plants also need regular watering.
Fertilize the reed correctly
The plants need a lot of nutrients. If the garden soil is supplied with compost or horn shavings when planting, the plant will have enough food in its first year.
In the bucket should be regularly during the growth phase, onbest at 14-day intervals, plant fertilizers are administered.
An overview of the most important planting and care tips
| Activity | What to do? |
|---|---|
| Select Location | » sunny » warm » sheltered from the wind |
| Prepare the ground | » nutritious » moist » profound |
| Plant Reeds | » sufficient planting distance (one meter) » insert rhizome barrier (30 cm deep) |
| Pouring pile pipe | » Plenty after planting » Plenty during drought » Waterlogging is tolerated |
| Fertilize Reeds | » Enhance soil with compost » Liquid fertilizer during the growth phase |
Popular variety: Reed 'Versicolor'
A popular breeding form is “Versicolor”. This ornamental grass grows less luxuriantly in height and has creamy white striped foliage.
Cut post tube
The reed should be cut back in the spring. Shorten the ornamental grass to about a hand's breadth above the ground, it will sprout vigorously again after the frost.
Propagating Reeds
In Central Europe, the conditions for the plant are not optimal. Although the giant reed can be cultivated quite easily outdoors, it usually does not flower in the harsh climate. As a result, most of the time you won't be able to propagate your giant reed by harvesting seeds.
Propagation can be done by division. For this purpose, the plant is dug up in the spring. The roots can be checked and damaged or dead plant parts can be easily removed.
The sufficiently developed rootstock is divided with a sharp knife or spade. The resulting rhizome parts can be transplanted immediately. The divided plant should be watered well and cultivated as described.
Detect diseases and pests
The robust Spanish reed is not sought after by pests. Specific diseases are also not known. Mistakes in care can damage the pile reed due to a too cool and shady location or neglected watering.
Winter reed
Before the first frost, the parts of the plant above the ground die off. Temperatures down to around -15 degrees are tolerated. Young plants should be protected by a layer of leaves or mulch for the first year.
The colorful varieties are less robust and should be cultivated in tubs in our latitudes and inbe set up bright and frost-free in winter.
» Tip: Tying up the leaves during the winter will prevent too much moisture from getting in.