Growing Bamboo Plants

Growing Bamboo Plants

Growing bamboo is extremely easy. Popularity surged after giant pandas arrived at U.S. zoos in the early 1970s. Native to China, bamboo is pandas' favorite food. Fast-growing and prolific, bamboo can grow 20 feet in a season!

Several hundred varieties exist, divided into clumping and running types. Running types are invasive, spreading roots widely. Contain running types.

Bamboo grows well indoors and out, and in containers on patios/decks—use a large container.

Bamboo is a lucky symbol, especially for love.

---

Plant Propagation

Bamboo grows from rhizomes. They multiply and spread rapidly. Easy to transplant—dig up rhizomes, divide, and replant.

---

How to Grow Bamboo Plants

Choose clumping types for contained groups (best for containers). Use running types for hedgerows or large areas.

Tip: Ask about characteristics when buying—with hundreds of varieties, height, appearance, and growth habits vary greatly.

Prepare the area: loosen soil, remove weeds. Dig a hole and fill with rich, loose soil. No fertilizer or manure at planting—it burns roots. Plant rhizomes 1–2 inches deep. If planting a container plant, set it level or slightly deeper. Mulch and keep soil moist. Once established, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Bamboo grows in full sun to partial shade. Shade-tolerant for shade gardens. Prefers rich, well-draining soil—roots dislike wet soil.

Apply general-purpose fertilizer monthly for fast, lush growth.

Tip: Bamboo tells you when thirsty—leaves roll up.

---

Controlling Invasive Growth

Running bamboo is invasive. Contain it. Stream beds or ponds are natural barriers. Wide sidewalks also work. Border edging must be 24–30 inches deep to stop runners.

---

Insects, Pests, and Disease

If problems occur, treat early with organic or chemical repellents and fungicide.

Giant pandas love bamboo—fortunately, they're not roaming your neighborhood!

---