Is a Bamboo Tree Good for a Patio?

Bamboo provides a patio with a bit of color without overwhelming the area.

Bamboo Trees Compliment Patios

Bamboo trees provide patios with a bit of nature without overwhelming the space. They also act as privacy screens and windscreens. These airy, bright plants thrive in sunny to partial sun conditions. In northern climates, a potted bamboo plant can be taken indoors during winter to prevent frost and cold damage. Many varieties of in-ground bamboo spread and you will have to use preventive measures, such as plastic sheeting to prevent your tree from becoming a grove. Varieties such as Fargesia and Thamnocalamus are clumping varieties, meaning they will not spread, so if you want to plant an in-ground bamboo tree consider these varieties.

Bamboo Trees Are High Maintenance

Planting a bamboo tree near your patio requires greater planning and greater maintenance than an average tree. The soil surrounding the bamboo tree must be weeded and mulched as well as regularly fertilized. In cooler climates the bamboo tree requires winter preparation, such as mulching and covering, in order to survive frosty conditions. If you are looking for a low-maintenance patio tree the bamboo tree is not for you.

Bottom Line

Bamboo trees require more maintenance than other trees. In-ground bamboo trees must be weeded and require more maintenance than their container bound counterparts. Some in ground bamboo trees tend to spread rapidly so use caution before planting near a patio or elsewhere in your garden. Potted bamboo trees require less maintenance than in-ground varieties and make good container patio plants.

References

• American Bamboo Society: Planting and Caring For Bambooaring