by Ken Lain, the mountain gardener
Red Fox Sedge has striking clumps of red foliage fade to flax, giving off a warm glow at sunset. This versatile Sedge thrives in wet areas around fountains and water gardens, yet equally happy in dry conditions. An attractive foliage effect in container gardens, perennial beds, and fountain accents. A reliable choice in poorly drained pockets along dry streambeds and beside large landscape boulders.
There are over 100 varieties of Sedge to date. These grass-like plants are drought tolerant, easy to grow, and practically maintenance-free.
Sedge, botanical Carex, looks very much like a grass, but with more versatility and color choices. They are useful in moist areas, such as ponds, but equally happy in dry areas.
Birds are especially drawn to Sedge for the tiny seed produced and nest lined with the delicate blades.
Sedge crowds out other invasive species and comes in many hues and heights. It is an evergreen plant that grows in the cooler seasons and may go dormant in hot temperatures.
Light
In the mountains, Sedge prefers 3+ hours of sun. The more sun equals brighter foliage colors through the growing season.
Soil
It will grow well in a variety of soil types, including clay, sand, or loam. It will tolerate a range of soil acidity and alkalinity.
Water newly planted trees regularly with a garden hose for at least one month (2 months in Summer). Automatic irrigation systems may not be sufficient initially. Water frequency will vary according to the season, exposure, and plant size.
April – Oct this Maple should be irrigated 2 x weekly.
Nov – Mar this Maple should be irrigated 2 x monthly
Feed 4x Times per Year with either 7-4-4 All Purpose Plant Food, Soil Sulfur, or Humic. Here’s the recommendation by season:
Spring = 7-4-4 All Purpose Food + Soil Sulfur
Summer= 7-4-4 All Purpose Food + Humic
September = 7-4-4 All Purpose Food
December = 7-4-4 All Purpose Food
Some of the many sedges grown by Watters Garden Center are:
Texas Meadow, Lawn Creek, Stream Cherokee, Emory, Franks, Malibu, Fraser’s, Pennsylvania, Bunny, Blue Sedge and more. Sedge grows well in mountain gardens.
Plant Care
Sedge plant care is minimal. Sedge can take an occasional mowing in lawn situations. They have the advantage of requiring little further attention, unlike traditional turfgrass. You can mow the plants but use a sharp blade and mow no lower than 2/3 the plants height. If the plant starts to die out in the center, divide your Sedge in late spring and early summer.