Lomandra is a versatile grass appreciated for its slender, evergreen leaves and its clumping growth habit, making it a fantastic addition to a variety of garden styles. Its resilience and low-maintenance nature make it an excellent choice for adding greenery and structure to your outdoor space with ease.
Planting Calendar
Lomandra can be planted throughout the year.
Prepare
Lomandra (Spiny-head Mat-rush or Basket Grass) is native to and breed in Australia. With many varieties to chose from there is one for most situations. It is tuff and very hardy. Ideal for mass planting, coastal gardens, dry areas, banks, rockeries and is often used in council planting on roundabouts due to its tough nature and ability to survive on neglect.
Position
Lomandra thrives in full sun, but will also tolerate some shade.
Soil
When planted into the ground Lomandra prefer a free-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container mix. This mix contains Saturaid, which helps with moisture retention in the soil.
Plant
When planting into the ground, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay. When planting into containers plant into Kings Container Mix, as this has water retention crystals in it, which will help in keeping the soil moist.
Care
Watering
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil. Once established Lomandra can take periods of dryness.
Feeding
For strong healthy roots and plants, apply monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, from Spring through to the end of Autumn, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health.
Mulching
Mulch around the base of the plants (making sure it is not in direct contact with the trunk or base of the plant) with Living Earth More than Mulch. Mulching helps to reduce weeds as well as aiding the soil to lock moisture in the ground.
Pruning
Gather the clump together like a pony tail and cut back to no lower than 15cm above the ground. The best time to do this is in Autumn.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lomandra?
Lomandra is a hardy, evergreen grass-like plant known for its strappy leaves and compact form. It's perfect for adding texture to gardens and landscapes.
How do I plant Lomandra?
When planting into the ground, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay. When planting into containers plant into Kings Container Mix, as this has water retention crystals in it, which will help in keeping the soil moist.
How often should I water Lomandra?
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil. Once established Lomandra can take periods of dryness.
How do I prune Lomandra?
Gather the clump together like a pony tail and cut back to no lower than 15cm above the ground. The best time to do this is in Autumn.
What pests and diseases affect Lomandra?
Lomandra is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, overwatering can lead to root rot. Ensure soil drains well to prevent this.