Nashville Grass

Plant Type: evergreen to semi-evergreen ornamental grass
Plant Height: 2–3 feet (foliage); up to 4 feet with bloom plumes
Spread: 2–3 feet
Flower Color: golden-bronze aging to tan
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Nashville Grass (Muhlenbergia rigida ‘Nashville’): Soft Texture and Golden Seasonal Color

Nashville Grass is a graceful ornamental grass with fine-textured green foliage and golden-bronze seed heads that appear in late summer to fall. This heat-loving, drought-tolerant variety offers movement, texture, and seasonal interest in water-wise Arizona landscapes.

Key Features of Nashville Grass

• Seasonal Blooms: Golden-bronze flower spikes sway above foliage from late summer through fall.
• Fine-Textured Foliage: Narrow green leaves create a soft, airy look year-round.
• Drought & Heat Tolerant: Ideal for low-water gardens once established.
• Low Maintenance: Requires little upkeep beyond annual cutbacks.

Growing and Care Tips

Nashville Grass is hardy and thrives in full sun with minimal water once mature.

Soil: Prefers well-draining sandy or rocky soils; amend clay for improved drainage.
Water: Moderate during establishment; deep water every 3–4 weeks in summer once mature.
Fertilizer: Apply a light dose of balanced fertilizer in spring to encourage lush growth.
Pruning: Cut back to 6–8 inches in late winter or early spring for fresh foliage.

Landscaping Uses

• Accent Plant: Adds movement and light-catching plumes to garden beds.
• Mass Plantings: Effective in drifts or as a repeating element in large spaces.
• Borders: Provides height and texture to perennial and shrub borders.
• Erosion Control: Root system helps stabilize slopes and prevent soil loss.

Summary

Nashville Grass brings elegance and subtle seasonal color to desert-friendly gardens. Its drought tolerance, fine texture, and golden fall display make it a versatile ornamental grass for Arizona landscapes.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Nashville Grass

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for best bloom and foliage density.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or rocky soils preferred.
Spacing: Plant 2–3 feet apart for mass plantings.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: Not needed—naturally forms a sturdy, upright clump.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.
• Frequency: Every 3–4 days for the first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Enough to moisten soil 6–8 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Generally after 2–3 months of regular watering.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 3–4 weeks.
• Winter: Water every 6–8 weeks if dry.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Position 1 emitter 8–12 inches from base.
Flow Rate: 1 gallon per hour.
Number of Emitters: One for small plants; two for mature clumps.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase slightly during prolonged summer heat; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for Nashville Grass:

• Soil Check: Allow the top 3 inches to dry before watering again.
• Avoid Overwatering: Prefers dry intervals for healthier root systems.
• Mulch: Use gravel mulch to retain moisture and enhance texture in desert designs.