Bamboo is fantastically beautiful – but it can quickly become a nightmare in the garden too! Here are some tips to keep in mind when choosing, planting and caring for Bamboo.
Help! My bamboo is growing above my head!
And that does not mean the height, but the uncontrollable expanding in the garden. Many homeowners simply don't care enough about the natural growth behavior of plants. That can really backfire with bamboo.
Fargesia and Phyllostachys
If you are looking for a smaller bamboo species, then the Fargesia is recommended. All species and varieties of this bamboo genus do not form shoots and show a compact growth. The plants develop a dense clump over the years and grow in width 'on the spot'. But phyllostachys is also recommended:The flat tube bamboo is just a more expressive plant! The plant has striking stems and the high growth of this bamboo is impressive.
For hobby gardeners who want to bring an Asian flair to their garden with these evergreens, here are some tips to prevent wild growth.
A rhizome barrier is a must for Phyllostachys! This is the only way to control the runners. There are all kinds of root barriers – from martial concrete rings to expensive stainless steel plates, there are many possibilities. The most common and feasible method in the private garden remains a robust film, preferably made of HDPE. This is buried like a ring around the planting hole, leaving enough space for the bamboo to grow. The foil should be at least 70 cm, probably 80 cm wide and really deep. But do not forget to leave a protrusion about 10 cm above the ground for safety reasons. Because the roots of Phyllostachys can also seek a way out of their prison above ground. They must be removed regularly. It is also important to close the root barrier at the tube. A stable splint is recommended here, because the flat tube bamboo in particular uses every crack to root through and generate a strong root pressure.
Tip when planting all kinds of bamboo
Find a spot as sheltered from the wind as possible, as the wind dries out the bamboo in winter and leaves the leaves unsightly. For the same reason, partial shade locations are also advised as too much sun can burn the leaves and the bamboo protects itself from evaporation by coiling the leaves. A humus-rich environment and loose soil is recommended for the bamboo and always give it enough water. Water is especially important for the evergreen in winter, as it continues to lose moisture through the leaves, but the shallow roots don't find enough water in the soil to grow in cold, dry weather. Also, be cautious when 'cleaning up'. Leave the leaves of the bamboo bare! The leaves contain silicon and iron and provide the plant with it. In addition, it is recommended to use a fertilizer based on potassium and nitrogen in early summer. Make sure that it is low in salt.
With the tips, the bamboo grows well and safely in your own garden. And with the right bamboo species or a good rhizome barrier, nobody has to worry about unwanted spread.
