Canary Grass is a fast-growing annual grass known for its upright, clumping growth and attractive seed heads. Reaching heights of 2 to 3 feet, its slender green leaves and compact, oval seed heads add texture and visual interest, especially when swaying gracefully in the breeze. Canary Grass are also highly valued as a nutritious food source for pet birds and wildlife, bringing a touch of nature's charm to your backyard. As an ornamental grass, it makes a beautiful filler in flower beds, borders, and dried floral arrangements. The plant is incredibly easy to grow, making it a fantastic choice for beginner gardeners or those looking to add a low-maintenance option to their space. It also plays an essential role in erosion control, helping to stabilize soil in a natural and eco-friendly way. Whether you're cultivating it for its aesthetic appeal, bird-friendly qualities, or practical benefits, Canary Grass is a wonderful addition to any garden. Also Known As: Canary Grass, Canaryseed Grass, Phalaris Grass, Alpiste, Common Canarygrass, Canary Reed Grass, Birdseed Grass, Spanish Alpiste, Wild Canary Grass, Pet Canary Grass. Plant Name: Grass, Canary Latin Name: Phalaris canariensis Days to Germinate: 14-21 Days to Harvest: 120 Days to Bloom: 60-110 Plant Height: 2 - 5 Feet Spread: 1 - 2 Inches Bloom Diameter: 1/2 - 1 Inch Growth Habit: Clumping USDA Zones: 5-9 Lifespan: Annual Brand: TomorrowSeeds Sunlight: Full Sun, Partial Shade Pollination: Heirloom, Open-Pollinated GMO: No Fungicide-Treated Seeds*: No Seeds Packed For**: 2026 *Fungicide-treated seeds protect the seedlings from diseases until they are up and growing. Do not eat treated seeds. **Seeds are freshly packed for the growing season of the year listed. Seeds are still viable beyond pack date. Store in a cool and dry location such as the refrigerator or basement to best preserve germination rates. Planting Instructions: Soil Preparation: Choose an area with heavy, well-draining soil that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. Remove weeds, large rocks, and litter from the planting area. Leave small weeds and dead grass, they will enrich the soil when turned under. Spade or till the soil 6-8 inches deep. Loosening the soil will help the plant establish strong roots. If the soil is heavy or clay-like, mix in some sand or compost to improve drainage. Optionally, form rows of soil beds 4-6 inches high and at least 18 inches apart. This formation of ridges will help with drainage, ensure good airflow, and make harvesting for cut flowers easier. Lay down 1/2"-3/4" peat moss, sawdust, or potting soil, the soil surface. This layer is beneficial for flower seeds because it can the improve the germination environment and prevent soil crusting. Planting: Starting Indoors: For earlier blooms, you may optionally cold-stratify seeds for at least 30 days then start planting indoors in containers 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date in Spring, keeping seedlings at least 65F. Harden off then transplant seedlings outdoors in a sunny location when temperatures are consistently above 60F. To transplant seedlings, prepare a transplant hole outdoors in a sunny location. Remove the plants carefully from the pots or flats and set them in the transplant holes, burying some of the stem in the ground. Pack the soil loosely around the plant and leave a slightly sunken area around each plant to hold water. Water the plants after transplanting. Directly Sowing: If directly sowing outdoors, plant after the first hard frost in early Spring to cold-stratify seeds. Plants will germinate in late Spring when the soil warms to at least 60F. Fall planting is not recommended unless planting outdoors in environments with mild, frost-free winters, or planting indoors with supplemental grow lights. For blooms in late Spring of the following year, sow outdoors after the first hard frost in Fall to cold-stratify seeds. To plant, make holes 1/4 inch deep and spaced 5-10 inches apart down the rows of raised beds. Plant 2-3 seeds per hole, then cover thinly with soil. In small plots, flower seeds may be scattered and gently watered in. Once seedlings emerge, plants can separated and spaced 5-10 inches apart to allow room for mature plants to spread and prevent overcrowding. Water after planting. Planting Depth: 1/4 inch Within-Row Spacing: 5-10 inches Between-Row Spacing: 18-24 inches Care During the Season: Canary Grass care is relatively simple. Water it regularly, especially during dry periods, but avoid overwatering, as this plant prefers drier conditions once established. It is relatively low-maintenance but benefits from occasional light fertilization during the growing season to support its growth. As the plant matures, you can trim back dead or damaged stems to keep it tidy and promote fresh growth. In colder climates, protect the plant from harsh winter conditions by mulching around the base. This grass is drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for xeriscaping or low-maintenance gardens.
