The Care of Live Bamboo Plants

Live bamboo plants make attractive potted plants.

Bamboo is an evergreen grass desirable for its fast rate of growth and versatility. Depending on the species, the plant can be grown as a privacy screen, potted ornamental, or cultivated as a crop. Bamboo can be divided according to how it grows. Some grow in clumps, while others spread quickly on runners. The latter can become invasive and should be contained with an underground barrier. Bamboo range widely in size, from only 12 inches to over 60 feet. Regardless of the specific type, bamboo plants are easy to grow and have the same basic care needs.

Things You'll Need

• Watering tool
• Mulch
• Stakes and string
• Barrier for running bamboo, or containers

Instructions

1. Place or plant your bamboo in full sunlight. Most bamboos grow best when exposed to a full day's worth of sunlight, according to the American Bamboo Society. They also grow fastest in full sunlight.

2. Plant your bamboo in rich, loamy soil. The plants prefer slightly acidic soil. While some can grow in dry climates, most types of bamboo thrive in soil that is cool and moist, but well-draining. Many bamboo species grow in wetlands or marshes.

3. Water frequently after planting. Keep the soil moist. Plants larger than a 5-gallon size need at least a gallon of water per week. Do not over-water, however, or the leaves may drop off. Once the bamboo has reached the size you want it to be, reduce watering. Let the top layer of soil dry out before you water it again.

4. Surround your bamboo with at least 2 inches of mulch. As the leaves fall, leave them on the ground as an added layer of protection. Although bamboo is evergreen, the leaves do turn yellow and slowly fall out as new leaves grow.

5. Protect your bamboo from strong winds. The plants are prone to wind-burn, and the canes can be damaged or broken in a windstorm. Place your bamboo against a fence or house, or stake the canes to provide extra support.

Tips & Warnings

• Control the spread of running bamboos by installing a barrier 30 inches deep around the perimeter of the plant. Bamboo also grow in containers.

References

• University of Maryland Cooperative Extension; Bamboo; Raymond V. Bosmans
• University of Tennessee Cooperative Extension; Bamboo; Becky Koepke-Hill, et al.
• American Bamboo Society; Planting and Caring for Bamboo; Ned Jaquith; October 2008