Though its roots are firmly planted in Asia, Bamboo can now be cultivated in nearly every region around the world, making it one of the most functional wood producing plants on earth. Because it matures quickly, Bamboo is becoming increasingly popular as a building material in a growing number of countries all over the globe.
Often mistakenly referred to as a tree, Bamboo is actually a perennial species of fast-growing evergreen grass. Adaptable and easy-going, Bamboo is fairly unproblematic and works superbly for many landscaping initiatives. As an added bonus, Bamboo is a very “green” and earth-friendly flora, removing more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and producing more oxygen than any other plant on the planet.
Treat Bamboo plants like you would any other perennials in the garden. Adaptable to most soil types, Bamboo is not happy in clay soil, so it is advisable to improve your soil conditions before planting. Gypsum is quite useful in breaking up clay soils, and you can also add organic matter in the form of peat moss, compost, manure, coarse sand, crushed leaves and any other macrobiotic mulching materials. Put down a good thick layer and then plow it under to build a nice deep layer of bedding soil.
The best time to plant Bamboo is in the spring, after the threat of all frosts has passed. Water just to keep the soil moist, and maintain a 2-inch layer of shredded bark or any type of natural mulch around the base of your plants to help the soil retain moisture and to protect the roots from extreme cold. Bamboo can even be maintained in a water feature, as long as the roots are kept completely submerged. If placed in a vase or fish bowl type container, just add a few drops of plant food each month after you change the water, or if you’re growing your Bamboo in a pond where the water is filtered, you won’t need to do a thing.
Most Bamboo plants should be located in areas that receive indirect sunlight, as this plant grows wild in dense, shady forests and does not appreciate too much direct sun. However, our Sunset Glow Bamboo is very tolerant of direct sun, as well as heat and drought conditions. Sunset Glow is a dwarf variety, making it very popular with gardeners who have limited growing space.
Because Bamboo is the fastest growing plant on the planet, it has also earned a reputation for being rather wild and out-of-control when left to its own devices. Yet, our Black Bamboo grows as much as 10-12 feet per year, and is never invasive or ill-mannered. Drought tolerant, low maintenance and adaptable to most soils and climates, is it any wonder Black Bamboo is the most in-demand bamboo on the market today. For a dramatic display, try planting Black Bamboo in rows at 3-4 foot intervals, and in no time at all you’ll be enjoying an exotic privacy screen that’s both functional and picturesque.
Hi, last year I bought 6 wind mill plams from you, I left one in the ground for winter to see if they will live in spring. now I ask you will the bambo live here in mich.? are they to be left in all winter and be o k in spring? please let me know, I want to have the bambo all around the yard. Al wraight
It should be just fine. I would add a layer of protective mulch around the plant, maybe 4-5 inches. This will ensure it will live. As the plant gets more mature, it will gain strength and have an easier time in dealing with the cold. You may lose a few leaves near spring, but these will quickly be replaced by new ones.
I have heard stories of Bamboo taking over neighbors property and law suites and even the possibility of it being illegal to plant, is any of this true and does it need to be contained?
You should always check with your local “County Extension Agency”. They can provide you will details on the invasiveness of bamboo in your area. Precaution always needs to be taken when planting any kind of bamboo. Containment of bamboo is recommended for every application. Your local agency will be able to help you on your local guidelines.