Acorus Gramineous Care

This is an aquatic plant, so constant or near-constant contact with water is essential. If the plants are not growing at water's edge, water as needed to keep the soil moist. Leaf scorch is an indication of too little water.

Feed Japanese sweet flag grass as needed with a slow-release, slow- to medium-rate fertilizer, applied according to the product directions. If the plants are near a pond with fish, be aware of any fertilizer's effect on the water.

This water-loving plant also likes a fair amount of sun. It grows well in full to part shade, but more sun usually means that the soil needs more water to prevent it from drying out.

Japanese sweet flag grass is tolerant of a variety of soil types, including heavy clay, but it prefers fertile soil that stays moist at all times. It is not important that the soil is well-drained.

Native to hot, humid climates of Asia, Japanese sweet flag grass can tolerate the heat and humidity in any U.S. region; dryness is another matter. But as long as the plant gets enough water, they will do fine. Protection from hot afternoon sun can be beneficial in very hot weather. Leaves can brown at the edges in cold winter weather.