Carex is a genus of flowering ornamental grasses that includes over 2,000 individual species. These grasses are classifed as sedges. We carry five different Carex varieties that each have unique characteristics.

Cardoon can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost, or sown directly outdoors after all frost danger has passed.

Carex grows well in both full sun and partial shade. It generally prefers well-drained soil that is evenly moist. Carex Bronze and Red Rooster prefer slightly wetter soil, and Carex Frosted Curls tolerates dryer soil.

• If starting directly outdoors, first prepare a seedbed by breaking up soil, removing weeds, and adding compost.
• If starting indoors, use trays or small pots filled with a starter compost.
• Sow 3-4 seeds per plant. For Carex Fresh Look, sow 5-6 seeds per plant.
• Surface sow the seeds, and cover thinly with no more than 1/8 inch of soil.
• Keep seeds around 65F degrees or warmer, and keep moist until germination.
• Under proper conditions, germination should occur in 2-4 weeks. Carex Fresh Look can take longer, at 4-8 weeks.
• Before transplanting seedlings into the garden, it's essential to "harden them off". This involves acclimating young plants to outdoor conditions by placing them in a sheltered outdoor area for about a week. Initially, shield them from strong winds and direct sunlight. If there's a risk of frost overnight, either cover the plants or bring them indoors, then return them outside in the morning. This hardening off method helps strengthen the plant's cell structure, minimizing transplant shock and sun damage.
• When transplanting outdoors, most Carex plants should be allowed 1-2 feet of space each. Carex Fresh Look is larger, and should be allowed 3-4 feet between each plant.

• Carex plants generally require little care, and are headache-free.
• Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their seeds from germinating.
• Mulches play a vital role in preserving soil moisture and ensuring consistent soil temperatures. When it comes to annuals, using organic mulch made from shredded leaves not only enhances the appearance of the bed but also enriches the soil as it decomposes over time. Remember to keep mulch away from the plant stems to avoid potential rot issues.
• Fertilizer is largely unneccesary, but mulching as per above is beneficial.
• At the end of the growing season, plants with damaged foliage can be cut back by up to 2/3 their size, but bear in mind that Carex is slow to regrow.
• Carex can be grown both directly in the landscape, or in containers.