How to Care for a Corkscrew Rush Plant

Overview

The corkscrew rush plant (Juncus effusus), also called soft rush, is a water plant with vibrant green, twisted stems that grow up to 2 feet tall. Corkscrew rush occurs naturally around the edges of bogs, ponds and other wetlands. It does best in full to partial sun and can survive with its roots submerged in as much as 3 inches of water. Corkscrew rush spreads very quickly and is best grown in a container to keep it from interfering with other plants.

Step 1

Fill a planting container 3/4 full with heavy clay soil. Plant the corkscrew rush at the same depth as it was previously growing. Cover the soil with 1 inch of medium-sized gravel.

Step 2

Place the container in the chosen growing location. The crown of the plant should not be submerged in more than 3 inches in the water.

Step 3

Feed once each month during the growing season with liquid fertilizer mixed at half the recommended strength.

Step 4

Cut off any damaged or dead stems as they appear using sharp scissors. Remove all winter-damaged stems in early spring.