Pampass Grass

[dennisb66]

I have 4 pampass grasses in my back garden,I am going to dig up 2 of them. Yesterday I cut them back to approx.24in off the ground,their base is about 2ft.6in. to 3ft. across. Do they have a root ball or long roots ? ,I have been told that digging them out will be a nightmare of a job,I'm in my mid 70s so not really looking forward to it but it's got to be done,. Any advice appreciated.

[Clanad]

Most decorative grasses only have a root ball that doesn't send dow deep roots. Depending on the size of the plant above the surface, most will only be 8 to 10 inches deep. You can cut the plant back several more inches to help in removal and still not damage it. In fact, I cut them back to the surface each spring. You can cut the ball in several pieces if you want to start more plants (or give them to unsuspecting neigbors...)

[Hawkwalk]

the roots of pampas grass are very tough, thick and spongy although not that deep, this does make them hard to dig up. I would recommed you cut them down as far as you can and then use a weedkiller such as root out or a brushwood killer to kill off the roots. Once this is done it will make digging a bit easier.

[tamborine]

Liquid fuel on base to soak into earth & set alight will burn roots & plant. Be careful !

[dennisb66]

Thanks for your replies.I think that my best route is to try to kill off the root before digging out.