GENERAL INFORMATION
Scientific Name: Schizachyrium scoparium
CommonName: Little Bluestem
Hardiness Zone: 4a - 8a
Hardiness Degree: -30°F (-34°C)
Blooming Season: Summer, Autumn, Winter, Late Summer
Plant Habit: Upright
Characteristics: Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Rabbit Resistant, Winter Interest (regional), Colorful/Attractive Foliage, Heat Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Frost Tolerant
Water: Light
Fertilizer: Once a month
Spacing: 18 - 24" (46 - 61cm)
Height: 24 - 30" (61 - 76cm)
Width: 18 - 24" (46 - 61cm)
Exposure: Sun
PROPAGATION
FINISHING
Media pH: 5.5-5.7
Temperature: Nights: 55 to 65°F (13 to 18°C) Days: 65 to 70°F (18 to 21°C)
Light Level (fc): 5,000 to 8,000
Vernalization: Yes
Daylength: Day length neutral
Watering: Allow media to dry slightly between watering.
Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer at a rate of 75 to 125 ppm.
Pinch After Transplant: No
Plant Growth Regulators: PGRs generally not needed
Pests and Fungal Diseases: if overwatered Phythium and rhizoctonia can appear
CROP SCHEDULING
1–qt. (10–cm) pot, 1 plant per pot: Not recommended
2 to 3–gal. (25 to 30–cm) pot, 3 plants per pot: #1 BR division: 12 to 14 weeks in 2-gal; 16 to 18 weeks in 3-gal
Bloom Months: August to October