How to Grow Clumping Bamboo
Clumping bamboo is an attractive, fast-growing plant whose uses range from decorative to functional. Because it grows quickly, it is often planted densely to provide a screen or windbreak. Yet it does not spread uncontrollably like other bamboos.
Clumping bamboo can reach a height of 25 feet, and certain varieties are hardy to -20 degrees F. The clumping variety of bamboo prefers to grow in partial to full shade. Clumping bamboo is easy to plant and grow, and once established, it makes an attractive addition to your yard.
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Instructions
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Planting the Bamboo
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1
Select the area where you want to plant your clumping bamboo. The bamboo needs rich soil that drains well. Spacing depends on what purpose the bamboo will serve. If it is merely decorative, you can have one plant or space several plants out. If you wish the bamboo to act as a privacy screen or windscreen, you can plant several plants very close together.
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2
Dig a hole roughly the size of the potted bamboo and a little deeper then height of the pot. Gently remove the plant from its pot. It should come out with all the dirt from the pot intact. If the plant is root bound, that is, stuck tight in the pot by its roots, do not tug or pull it. Instead, carefully cut the pot off the plant, which will prevent damage to the plant's new growth.
Place the bamboo in the hole. The plant with all its pot dirt should be just below the edge of the hole. Carefully refill the hole with dirt around the bamboo, tamping the soil down lightly as you go. It is important to leave no air pockets as you refill the hole. All the soil that came out of the hole should be tamped in and around the bamboo. -
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3
Add an application of organic quick-release fertilizer once the dirt has been repacked around plant. Give the bamboo a good soaking with water, and place an ample layer of mulch around the plant. Mulch is important because bamboo does not like to be overly wet, yet the mulch will help retain moisture.
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4
Monitor the soil wetness and water accordingly. Bamboo does not like to be soggy and likes to dry out between waterings. Fertilize every four to six weeks with organic quick-release low-nitrogen fertilizer.
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Tips & Warnings
Organic compost works well as a fertilizer.
Low-nitrogen fertilizer is recommended Be sure you are planting a clumping variety of bamboo; otherwise, it could become invasive.
