Bamboo Plant Care and Removal

Bamboo is a hardy plant that's easy to grow and harder to get rid of.

Bamboo can thrive in a number of different zones and even weather winters with sub-zero temperatures. It can make an attractive natural fence or focal point for a garden, but getting rid of it can be a chore.

Features

Bamboo reproduces via rhizomes beneath the ground. This means it can spread quickly. To ensure that it remains manageable, bamboo should be planted within underground borders, such as plastic edging, that will limit the distance the rhizomes can spread. This reproduction is the same trait that makes it difficult to remove.

Watering

Water extra during dry spells.

To thrive, the one thing that bamboo requires plenty of is water. Each species has different lighting requirements, but without plenty of water the leaves will turn yellow, and the canes will eventually die.

Fertilizer

Bamboo is a fairly self-sufficient plant, but in nutrient-poor soils it can benefit from the application of natural fertilizers. Organic types, such as compost, manure or wood ashes, can supply the needed nutrients.

Removal

Removing bamboo completely can be a chore.

Removing bamboo can be complicated. Herbicides to kill the bamboo can be effective, but several applications may be needed, and rhizomes may continue to sprout new plants. Digging a border around the bamboo and installing heavy-duty plastic can help contain it to one area, making the herbicide more effective.

References

• Wayne's Word: Bamboo
• Farm Info: Growing Bamboo

Resources

• American Bamboo Society