The Ultimate Guide to Karl Foerster Companion Plants

Oleh Anonymous September 09, 2023 Post a Comment

Table of Contents

Karl Foerster

Karl Foerster is a famous German horticulturist and plant breeder who is best known for his work with ornamental grasses. He developed many cultivars of grasses that are still popular today, such as Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' and Molinia caerulea 'Karl Foerster'. Foerster was also interested in creating beautiful plant combinations, and his work with companion plants has inspired gardeners around the world.

Karl Foerster Companion Plants

Karl Foerster believed that plants should be grouped together based on their form, texture, and color. He created plant combinations that were both beautiful and functional, using companion plants to enhance the beauty of the main specimen while also providing support and structure. In this section, we'll take a closer look at some of the most popular Karl Foerster companion plants.

1. Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna'

Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' is a perennial plant that produces stunning purple-blue flowers from late spring to early summer. This plant is a perfect companion for Karl Foerster grasses because it provides a strong vertical accent that contrasts beautifully with the soft, flowing foliage of the grass. 'Caradonna' grows to about 18 inches tall and prefers full sun to partial shade.

Planting Tips:

For best results, plant Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Water regularly, but make sure the soil doesn't become waterlogged. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.

2. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as purple coneflower, is a perennial plant that produces striking pinkish-purple flowers from midsummer to early fall. This plant pairs well with Karl Foerster grasses because it adds a pop of color and visual interest to the landscape. 'Purpurea' grows to about 24 inches tall and prefers full sun to partial shade.

Planting Tips:

Plant Echinacea purpurea in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Water regularly, especially during hot, dry spells. Deadhead spent blooms to promote continuous flowering.

3. Nepeta x faassenii 'Walker's Low'

Nepeta x faassenii 'Walker's Low' is a low-growing perennial plant that produces beautiful blue flowers from late spring to early summer. This plant is an excellent companion for Karl Foerster grasses because it provides a mat of soft, fragrant foliage that serves as a backdrop for the upright grass. 'Walker's Low' grows to about 18 inches tall and prefers full sun to partial shade.

Planting Tips:

For best results, plant Nepeta x faassenii 'Walker's Low' in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Water regularly, but don't overwater. Trim back the foliage after flowering to promote bushier growth.

4. Stachys byzantina 'Silver Carpet'

Stachys byzantina 'Silver Carpet', also known as lamb's ear, is a low-growing perennial plant that produces soft, fuzzy silver-gray leaves. This plant pairs well with Karl Foerster grasses because it provides a beautiful contrast in texture and color. 'Silver Carpet' grows to about 12 inches tall and prefers full sun to partial shade.

Planting Tips:

Plant Stachys byzantina 'Silver Carpet' in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Water regularly, but don't overwater. Trim back the foliage after flowering to promote bushier growth.

5. Allium 'Globemaster'

Allium 'Globemaster' is a bulbous perennial plant that produces large, globe-shaped purple flowers from late spring to early summer. This plant is an excellent companion for Karl Foerster grasses because it adds a vertical accent and a pop of color to the landscape. 'Globemaster' grows to about 3 feet tall and prefers full sun.

Planting Tips:

Plant Allium 'Globemaster' bulbs in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Plant bulbs in the fall, at a depth of about 6 inches. Water regularly, especially during dry spells.

How to Design with Karl Foerster Companion Plants

Designing with Karl Foerster companion plants is all about creating beautiful combinations that complement each other and enhance the beauty of the main specimen. Here are some tips for designing with Karl Foerster companion plants:

1. Choose plants that have contrasting textures and colors.

When selecting companion plants for Karl Foerster grasses, look for plants that have contrasting textures and colors. For example, pair a soft, fluffy grass with a plant that has stiff, upright foliage, or pair a green grass with a plant that has colorful flowers.

2. Group plants together based on their form and size.

Group plants together based on their form and size to create a cohesive design. For example, plant low-growing plants in front of taller plants, or group plants with similar shapes and forms together.

3. Use repetition to create visual interest.

Repetition is a powerful tool in garden design. Use the same plant or combination of plants throughout the landscape to create a sense of unity and visual interest.

4. Consider the growing conditions of each plant.

Make sure to select companion plants that have similar growing conditions to the Karl Foerster grasses. This will ensure that all the plants thrive and look their best.

5. Experiment with different combinations.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations of Karl Foerster grasses and companion plants. The possibilities are endless!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Karl Foerster grass?

Karl Foerster grass is a cultivar of Calamagrostis x acutiflora that was developed by German horticulturist Karl Foerster. It is a tall, upright grass that produces feathery plumes in early summer.

2. What are some good companion plants for Karl Foerster grass?

Some good companion plants for Karl Foerster grass include Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna', Echinacea purpurea, Nepeta x faassenii 'Walker's Low', Stachys byzantina 'Silver Carpet', and Allium 'Globemaster'.

3. How do I care for Karl Foerster grass?

Karl Foerster grass is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but don't overwater. Cut back the grass in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.

4. Can I grow Karl Foerster grass in containers?

Yes, you can grow Karl Foerster grass in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the grass and has good drainage.

5. Where can I buy Karl Foerster grass and companion plants?

Karl Foerster grass and companion plants can be purchased at most nurseries and garden centers. They can also be ordered online from various retailers.

Karl Foerster companion plants are an excellent way to enhance the beauty of Karl Foerster grasses while also adding visual interest and structure to the landscape. By selecting plants with contrasting textures, colors, and forms, and grouping them together based on their size and growing conditions, you can create beautiful combinations that will make your garden the envy of the neighborhood.