What are the benefits of reeds in the garden?

Common reed ( Phragmites australis ) also called broom reed, broomstick or marsh reed is a perennial plant that inhabits the shallow waters of ditches, lakes, or ponds. It is found everywhere in humid areas.

reed culture sheet

The common reed is part of the Poaceae family formerly called the grass family. Although it is considered an invasive plant, it disappears with the drying up of wetlands.
According to La Fontaine’s fable The Oak and the Reed, the reed bends but does not break.
The broom reed is a large plant, 2 to 4 meters in height, with a single upright stem. Its flexible gray-green leaves form a sheath around the stem at the base.
Its flowers are long panicles of 20 to 30 cm first erect and then tilted after flowering. The purplish-brown ear or spikelet is covered with long silky white hairs.

How to multiply the reeds?

Like bamboo, the reed has a root system with rhizomes which is sometimes very invasive. Multiplication is therefore done by division of rhizomes in spring until early summer.
Choose a sunny and humid location, preferably clayey soil, but the reed can grow anywhere as long as it keeps its feet in the water.

How to create a reed bed in a water point?

The creation of a reed bed requires a water rise of 10 cm to 80 cm is necessary for winter.
In spring, the feet are submerged up to 30 cm in height which stimulates their development. Dry soil during the summer is fine for it as long as the soil remains moist.

How to maintain a reed bed?

The stubble is mown flush every other year, from October to January. The extraction of crushed stubble makes it possible to mulch trees and shrubs which then turns into humus.

Why plant reeds?

• Reed beds are home to dragonflies, amphibians, fish, birds, and mammals from predators, and more particularly during reproduction.
• The reeds fight against water pollution in aquatic areas.
• The roots filter the surface water by self-purification.
• Some municipalities use reed beds for wastewater treatment.
• The reed beds serve as spawning grounds for fish and amphibians.  
• Reeds are used for thatched roofs and serve as thermal insulation and soundproofing.

What does the law say about reed beds?

It is forbidden to fill the reed beds with rubble, burn the stubble, or clear them.