Bamboo plants grow in clumps and then form bamboo stalks.

They grow from

rhizomes or seeds. As bamboo stalks grow larger, they form rhizomes. The rhizomes
can spread out around the mature stalks of bamboo and grow new bamboo stalks.
Bamboo plants can also self-seed. This occurs asexually whenever environmental
changes affect the soil and plant growth. As the environment changes, the bamboo
clump stops growing, and it instead forms flowers. The flowers fall to the ground,
and their seeds then germinate in the soil. After a few weeks, a new bamboo clump
can form and produce new bamboo stalks.
What is a clumping bamboo?
Their rhizomes, the underground stems, are quite different than those of our timber
and other non-clumping bamboos. Instead of a horizontal spreading rhizome, they
are u-shaped making new culms next to the original plant, spreading only a few
inches per year, hence the name clumping bamboo.
How fast does bamboo grow in a year?
The sprouts that shoot up from the ground each spring can grow 12 inches a day!
The underground roots of common running fishpole bamboo, which can easily
reach 15 feet tall, can travel as far as 20 feet or more from the original clump.
Is bamboo is a tree?
Bamboo plant. Bamboos are a group of woody perennial evergreen plants in the
true grass family Poaceae. Some of its members are giants, forming by far the
largest members of the grass family. There are 91 genera and about 1,000 species
of bamboo.
How strong is a bamboo?
Bamboos are of notable economic and cultural significance in South Asia, Southeast
Asia and East Asia, being used for building materials, as a food source, and as a
versatile raw product. Bamboo has a higher compressive strength than wood, brick
or concrete and a tensile strength that rivals steel.
Clumping bamboos can be planted without fear of them spreading beyond their
assigned territory. Their rhizomes, the underground stems, are quite different than
those of our timber and other non-clumping bamboos. Instead of a horizontal
spreading rhizome, they are u-shaped making new culms next to the original plant,
spreading only a few inches per year, hence the name clumping bamboo. They
range in height from 8 to 25 feet, depending of the species,
Overview of Clumping Bamboo
Clumping bamboo are defined as having a non-invasive rhizome structure
(known as pachymorph rhizome) which differs from the better known and
sometimes fearedrunning bamboo (leptomorph rhizome). Clumpers form a tight
cluster of gently arching culms extending from a relatively small root mass. Each
underground bud pushes upward forming culms, and do not become long running
rhizomes. Instead, clumping bamboos grow outward in a circular formation at a
modest pace of 2 to 12 inches per year. Canopy growth is also relatively slow,
usually gaining a couple feet of height and width annually. Height range at maturity
is between 10 and 20 feet for most species. There are some exceptions; tropical and

subtropical species can reach 50 feet or more in the US, given hot, southern
climates.
We have a special affection for hardy clumping bamboos. We believe these
plants will help overcome popular fears about bamboo, and pave the way to its
acceptance as a significant addition to the landscape as well as its incorporation
into our culture. Bamboo Garden is on the forefront of introducing new and exciting
species of clumping bamboo into the United States and promoting their multitude of
uses. Though many are new to cultivation, clumping bamboo are gaining
recognition for their landscape value as low maintenance alternatives to the larger,
more vigorous, running bamboos. Fargesia sp. Rufa, with plumes of feather-like
foliage, provide a wonderful accent to the small urban garden. Larger species, such
as F. robusta, create dense evergreen privacy screens to over 15 feet. The
gracefully weeping culms of Borinda angustissima and F. sp. Jiuzhaigou support
masses of tiny leaves with a delicate, airy texture. Outer culms can be topped to
make the plant more compact and upright. New introduction, F. sp. Scabrida, has
outstanding colors: purple culms outlined by rusty-red culm sheaths contrasting
with dark green leaves. Some species, such as F. nitida, are among the most cold
hardy bamboo, surviving temperatures as low as negative 20 Fahrenheit.
Most thrive in a partial shade environment, but there is enough variety to find a
suitable clumping bamboo for just about any need. Our selection have special
significance and unique qualities for the home garden or commercial landscape. We
hope the pages of our website offer a new perspective of the possibilities and
wonderful variety among clumping bamboo.

http://www.bamboogarden.com/Hardy%20clumping.htm#clumping overview
https://www.reference.com/science/bamboo-reproduce-e8128854d185bc36

Whats the difference between running bamboo and clumping bamboo?

Clumping bamboo spread very slowly. They have a pachymorph rhizome system,
which means that the underground buds turn upward and become canes
immediately, as opposed to the running types which can travel several feet
outward, producing canes along the way each season. This causes them to
gradually expand outward at a modest and predictable pace. They are considered
non-invasive and are very easy to maintain. Temperate clumpers average about 1015 feet, increasing 1-3 feet in height per year. We carry a few tropical clumpers
which can grow much larger, but we specialize in cold hardy temperate clumping
bamboo. We carry about 40 different kinds of temperate clumping bamboo.
Clumping Bamboo Growth Rate
Running bamboo spread at moderate to fast paces. They have a leptomorph
rhizome system, which means the rhizomes dont usually turn up and become
canes. Instead, as they push through the soil the lateral buds produce either canes
or new rhizomes perpendicular to the parent rhizome. Because of this dual growth
system runners are able to cover more ground per year than clumpers. Mature
plants spread 3 to 5 feet on average, (most will also increase 3-5 feet in height per
year as well). In some extreme cases runners can spread over 15 feet in a season.
Running bamboo include many different genera and species, ranging in size from a
foot tall to 80 feet tall, and can be either slow or quick spreading, and either open or
dense growing, depending on the species and where it is planted. We carry over 100
different types of running bamboo, in all shapes and sizes.

There is a rare third form of rhizome system called Amphimorph, which is both
running and clumping at the same time; however only three bamboo are known to
have this type of growth habit (most noticeably several members of the South
American Chusquea genus).
How does bamboo grow?
Simply stated, bamboo grows UP in the spring and OUT in the summer and fall.
Bamboo is a grass, and as such, grows much the same way your lawn grasses grow,
just on a much larger scale. (Think of the runners as the warm-season spreading
grasses and the clumpers as the cool-season tufted grasses.) Basically, the bamboo
increases its height and diameter by putting up new, larger canes each growing
season until it hits its max height for the area its planted in. The new shoots grow
to their full height in about 2-3 months. The shooting period for most species is April
though June. See this link for photos of new shoot growth rates
See this link for photos of clumping bamboo growth rate in the landscape: Clumping
Bamboo Growth Rate
Older canes will never increase in height, but will simply put on a new crop of leaves
each year. Individual canes can live for 10+ years, unless they get shaded out or
are somehow compromised. This is why thinning a bamboo grove becomes
important once the bamboo has become established. A mature grove of bamboo
has a mixture of canes with different size and age.
Outside of the shooting season, in the summer and fall for most types, most of the
growth occurs underground where it is not visible. The bamboo is hard at work
though, pumping water to support all the leaves, and expanding the root mass for
next seasons new shoots.
How fast does bamboo grow in height?
This is a tough question to generalize because there are so many different types of
bamboo and different climates in which to grow bamboo. It depends on if theyre
runners or clumpers, how old they are, and where they are planted.
Temperate clumpers, like Fargesia, average about 1-3 feet in height per year.
Taller running types, like Phyllostachys, usually grow 3-5 feet in height per year.
Older, more established plants, usually at least 3 years in the ground, will grow
faster than newly planted ones.
Placement and care will influence how fast and tall a bamboo will grow. The
temperate clumpers grow best in partial shade, and in places with drier summers
and a significant cooling-off period at night, Such as NE and PNW USA. (so a
Fargesia grown in the South will most likely never be as big and healthy as one
grown in the Pacific Northwest).
On the other hand, the tropical clumpers, as well as some of the larger runners,
prefer exactly the opposite climate: full sun and hot, humid summers. (In fact, the
tropical clumpers wont grow well in anything colder than USDA Zone 9, and most
will perish in Zone 8.)

A timber bamboo, such as P. edulis Moso that averages 35 to 45 feet at our nursery
in the PNW, can reach heights of over 60 feet in the south east, but under 30 feet in
colder climates like zones 6 and 7. (NE and midwest). Consistent irrigation during
the dry months, 1-3 times per week, will produce faster, healthier growth.
Most shorter runners such as Sasa veitchii, and Pleioblastus pygmaeus, prefer
partial shade and tolerate a wide range of climates, as long as they arent planted in
full sun. In climates Zone 6 and colder they may be deciduous or even herbaceous,
and so will be shorter overall. Most of the small ground cover grow 1-2 feet in height
per year and spread outward at the same pace.
Clumping Bamboo Growth Rate yearly photo progression
How big will my bamboo get?
That depends on the species you plant, the amount of care it gets, and where you
plant it. For example, sun-loving bamboo such as Phyllostachys, planted in USDA
Zone 8, in full sun, will grow larger than the same bamboo planted in Zone 6, or in a
small area with only part sun.
On our website, the heights listed for each species are average heights for zone 8.
Subtracting 3-5 feet of height per zone decrease is a safe assumption generally. For
example, Phyllostachys decora will achieve 30 feet in zone 8, 25-27 feet in zone 7,
20-22 feet in zone 6, 15-17 feet in zone 5, with die back in a hard winter. Not
recommended for zone 4. For Fargesia, or other shorter bamboo, subtract about a
foot per zone.
In general, bamboo will get as big as it can depending on how much space it has to
grow, kind of like a goldfish in a goldfish bowl. If you want the bamboo to reach its
full height, you need to be prepared to donate the space, an area at least 30 feet in
circumference. Bamboo can grow to conform to whatever space it is given; a long
narrow planter, will produce a long, narrow screen, of moderate height, but most
likely not full height.
Some bamboo will size up better in small areas; for example P. vivax and P. dulcis
can grow over 20 feet tall in a 30 inch wide planter. It is also possible start with a
more mature plant to encourage larger canes.
How much do the runners spread per year?
On average, 3-5 feet per year.
This is always a hard question to generalize because it depends on the species,
where its planted, how much water you give it, and how long its been in the
ground.
If bamboo is planted in dense clay soil, without a loose layer of topsoil, it will
spread more slowly. Competition with other plants will also slow its spread rate,
especially in places where the sunlight is blocked form touching the ground.

In colder climates, many runners will spread slower than in warmer climates; the
same is true for drier climates. In shade, many of the larger runners, especially the
Phyllostachys, will spread slower than in a sunny area; on the other hand, many of
the smaller runners prefer shade. Defer to the pages about the specific bamboo
species for individual light preferences.
The larger runners will spread farther each year; 3-5 feet on average but over 10
feet in extreme cases. The smaller runners, such as Sasa, will cover less ground,
usually around 1-2 feet, but also in some cases they can spread as far at 5-8 feet in
a season. The less water you give an established bamboo, generally the slower it
will grow, although watering during extreme heat is recommended and often
essential for survival. However, a very large bamboo, if not watered with some
regularity, will spread out to search for a steady water supply.
A new planting will take two to three years to get established; before that the
bamboo is still acclimatizing to its new home, and will spread slowly.
Is bamboo evergreen?
Yes.
That depends on the species and the climate. Most bamboo are naturally evergreen,
but there are some that are naturally deciduous, or semi-deciduous. Also, in cold
climates bamboo will often shed their leaves and even loose some canes in the
winter, and in extreme cases will end up growing as perennials rather than
evergreens. However, almost all of the bamboo we sell are evergreen to USDA Zone
7, and most of those are evergreen down to Zone 6, some even to Zone 5. Defer to
our hardiness list for our most cold hardy bamboos.
Will bamboo go under the sidewalk?
Usually the clumpers wont, but the runners will if they use up the available space
that is easily accessible.
Will bamboo go under the road?
No. Weve even seen bamboo come up through freshly poured asphalt, where the
rhizomes attached to a mature grove were not removed during site preparation.
Concrete and asphalt often have a layer beneath them that is relatively soft,
sometimes even sand is used to level the site, and the rhizomes can scoot along it.
Most often though, especially for the smaller species, asphalt and concrete
driveways are too dense for bamboo to penetrate. Dry, compact gravel roads are
nearly impossible for bamboo to spread into.
Can bamboo grow indoors?
Most bamboo doesnt like the dry air indoor environments provide; still, some will
grow fairly well. This page lists bamboo that will grow well indoors. Otherwise, some
form of humidity is needed to make bamboo happy. Keep a misting bottle handy and
spray the bamboo daily.

Does bamboo shed a lot?

Bamboo will drop a few leaves gradually throughout the season, but never all at
once like deciduous trees. Some bamboo will have major shedding seasons, and
otherwise not drop as many leaves. Fargesia murielae, for example, does a major
shedding in the Fall as it prepares for the coming winter by dropping about 30% of
its foliage. Phyllostachys edulis, P. aurea, among a few other runners, have a large
shed in the Spring; as they are creating lush new foliage, they tend to shed the old
foliage that passed through the winter.
On the other hand, the larger-leafed bamboo, such as Sasa, will hold their leaves for
longer, sometimes several years. They also have fewer leaves to drop, so if you
want a bamboo right by your pool and you dont care about height, consider one of
these varieties: Smaller running bamboos
In addition to leaf litter, the new culms in the spring will shed their culm, leaf, and
branch sheathes once they are done growing. Bamboo leaf mulch should be swept
back into the grove so the bamboo can recycle the nutrients in the decomposing
leaves.
How deep do the roots go?
Bamboo roots are thin and fibrous (think big grass roots) and can go down 2-3 feet.
The rhizomes, which is the part that actually spreads, usually stay fairly shallow,
less than 12 inches. This makes them easy to locate and prune if done on an annual
basis.
Can bamboo grow in USDA Zone 6 or USDA Zone 5?
There are several types of running and clumping bamboos that can tolerate colder
climates. They are listed on this page: Hardiness list
Can bamboo grow in USDA Zone 4?
Usually not. Some types hardy to Zone 5, will be root hardy in Zone 4. You are at
the mercy of the weather. Try growing bamboo in containers and moving them
indoors from November through March.
How do I maintain a running bamboo?
Edging twice a year is best, both for the health of the bamboo and to keep it fully
under control. Edging involves cutting back the rhizomes as they expand to the
edge of the designated growing area. See a full list of maintenance methods,
details, and photos on this page: Bamboo Control
Can I keep my running bamboo from spreading by not fertilizing or watering it?
To some extent yes, but if a bamboo feels too neglected it may decide to head for
greener pastures, so use this technique with caution. It often depends on the

location. Lack of nutrition and water will often result in less healthy looking bamboo.
During the first three years, as the bamboo is getting established in a new area, it is
important to water regularly, 1-3 times per week, during the summer.
Can I plant my runner in a pot and put the pot in the ground to contain the runner?
No! This is the number one way to have bamboo get out and cause havoc. Pots,
Tupperware containers, garbage cans, metal feeding troughs, are all too small to
contain bamboo for longer than a couple years. In order for the bamboo to survive,
the containers must have adequate drain holes at the bottom. The bamboo
rhizomes spiral down the container, go out the drain holes, and then burst the pot
walls within a couple years. By that time, instead of bamboo rhizomes being shallow
like they usually would be, they are running deep, which means they will be more
difficult to dig up and prune back into shape.
If you wish to plant bamboo in a small area, the best option is to create a pruning
trench/sand trap around a small bamboo grove: Bamboo Control . If one or more
sides of the grove is inaccessible for pruning, install 80 mil barrier and check the
inside of the barrier yearly for circling rhizomes. Using the three sided barrier
technique is best for this application. For smaller running type bamboo, 60 mil
barrier is adequate.
Can metal be used as a bamboo barrier?
Its a little better choice than cement, but metal conducts heat and cold, which
means it will bake the bamboo roots in the summer and freeze them in the winter,
which will hurt the bamboo; it also can rust and leach chemicals. It also is difficult to
join together effectively enough to avoid the bamboo breaking it open.
Can a retaining wall act as a barrier?
If the foundation is well constructed and made of concrete, it will block bamboo. It
needs to be deeper than 30 inches, otherwise the bamboo can possibly get under
the wall. Bamboo can find its way through stone retaining walls.
Will bamboo grow well in containers?
Some will. Smaller runners will generally grow better in containers than larger ones;
clumpers can do very well in containers but they need partial shade to stay healthy.
Good runners for containers include Pseudosasa japonica, Phyllostachys
aureosulcata, P. nigra, and P. aurea. For clumping bamboo, most Fargesia will make
a nice container plant, with a fountain shaped plume of foliage. Groundcovers like
Sasa make nice short, bushy container accents. The Fargesia and most of the Sasa
will definitely need afternoon shade, or the leaves will burn. Use well draining
potting soil and make sure the container has good drainage at the bottom.
In a container, bamboo wont grow as tall, usually about 1/2 to 3/4 of its max height.
It will also require more watering in the summer than if it was in the ground. We
often water our bamboo as much as once a day during extreme heat, but in more

reasonable weather we water usually every 2-3 days. The bamboo will also be less
hardy; assume a drop of 1 USDA Zone.
You will also need to divide or transplant the bamboo regularly in order to keep it
from getting too root-bound. Clumpers can grow as long as 6 years in a container
approximately 20 gallons; however, the runners will need to be divided every 3-5
years to keep them healthy. In planters larger than 30" x 30", we have seen running
bamboo grow well for 5-6 years, but begin to decline in health beyond that.
What size container does bamboo need?
The bigger the better. If you are planning to use planter boxes, 18x18 inches and 18
inches deep is the smallest you should go. Bamboo can be grown in smaller pots
temporarily. If you are planting indoors in smaller pots, keep in mind that you will
have to divide the bamboo fairly frequently to keep them healthy, 1-2 years. Also
keep in mind that bamboo can blow over fairly easily, so avoid vase-shaped
containers and use caution when placing a tall bamboo in a windy area.
What is the best choice for growing a large bamboo in a container?
Members of the species Phyllostachys aureosulcata are very cold hardy and grow
tall and upright in containers, to heights of 15 to 18 feet. Phyllostachys aurea wont
get as tall (10 to 15 feet) but it will produce interesting, compact nodes at the base.
Bamboo that can achieve attractive, larger diameter canes in a pot, include
Phyllostachys dulcis, P. vivax, P. vivax Aureocaulis, and a few others. They can reach
heights of over 20 feet, with canes over an 1.5" in diameter.
If you want the best chance of getting big canes in a container, you need to buy a
mature plant.
Is a metal trough a good place to grow bamboo? How can I make it a good place to
grow bamboo?
The metal of the trough, especially placed in the sun, will bake the bamboos tender
roots in summer and freeze them in winter. If you want to use a trough, its best to
line it with something on the inside to act as insulation, such as barrier or old
carpet. The troughs should have extra drain holes as well to keep the bamboo from
getting waterlogged. We recommend using species of Phyllostachys for this
application that are hardy to USDA zone 5 or 6.
Can I plant Bamboo in a raised concrete planter?
Yes but to provide a stable, long lasting container, the concrete should be reinforced
with rebar. But keep in mind that concrete leaches lime into the soil, which raises
the pH beyond what bamboo prefers. To keep the bamboo healthy and happy, check
the soil now and again for pH level, and use a bark-heavy soil mix, which raises the
soil acidity. (aim for a pH of 5.5 to 7, in general)
What time of year is a good time to plant bamboo?

Generally Spring is best, March through June. Fall is also a good option, September
through the end of October. A well rooted bamboo can be planted in the Summer, as
long as it is watered regularly. Avoid planting fresh dug bamboo in the summer. All
of our bamboo in regular stock are rooted out in pots, so they are hardy and
versatile. Bamboo that is hardy 0F or lower, can be planted in the winter, barring
extreme temperatures.
If you live in a mild climate you can pretty much plant year round, barring severe
weather, as long as you supply the bamboo with enough water in the summer and a
layer of mulch for insulation in the Winter.
If you live in USDA Zone 5 or Zone 6, Spring is definitely the best time to plant
bamboo.
How far apart should I plant my bamboo and what size should I plant?
If you want to produce a dense screen quickly, plant 5-gallons or larger (we have
bamboo up to 35 feet tall in containers) 3-5 feet apart and they will fill in 1-2 years.
If you are willing to wait, plant the bamboo 6 to10 feet apart and they will fill in
within 3-5 years. Bamboo can be "trained" to run where there is a layer of loose,
loamy topsoil and regular irrigation.
Planting our smallest size starter Phyllostachys (1-gallon) about 5 feet on center will
provide you with an 18 to 30 foot tall, solid screen in 4-5 years. It is usually not
advised to plant bamboo closer than 3 feet apart, however some bamboos can be
planted back to back, if an immediate screen is desired. This may hinder the
growth rate. Contact us to discuss the details and timeline of your project.
How much space do I need to give bamboo to grow in?
It depends on how big you want the bamboo to grow.
Dedicate at least 3 feet by 3 feet for the Clumpers (12 feet circumference), and 3
feet by 10 feet for the Runners (26 feet circumference), to get reasonably close to
mature height. The more space the better. Bamboo can grow to conform to
whatever space it is given; a long narrow planter, will produce a long, narrow
screen, of moderate height, but most likely not full height.
You can maintain bamboo in a smaller area, for example, a runner contained within
a 3x5 foot planter, but it can be tricky to keep the bamboo healthy after 4 or 5
years. Transplanting or dividing every 3-5 years is recommended for small
containers or planters. Bamboo in a small area will grow shorter, with thinner canes,
than if they are given more space to spread. Irrigation is critical for bamboo that has
been in the same container for 3-5 years.
Good bamboo for containers indoors can be found here: Interior Bamboo
How deep should you plant bamboo?
No deeper than it is in the pot already; bamboo needs to be shallow to be healthy.
When done digging the hole, till in loose, loamy soil, wood chips, potting soil, or

compost in the bottom to promote good drainage and encourage deep rooting.
Apply a thin layer of loose mulch over the top of the bamboo when done planting.
What kind of soil does bamboo like?
Loose, well-draining, and slightly acidic. (a pH of 5.5 to 7, in general) If youre
keeping the bamboo in containers, any regular potting mix will do.
Can I plant bamboo in a boggy area that has standing water in the winter?
Most bamboo would perish, but some can grow in seasonally boggy soils that are
wet in the winter and dry in the summer (or vice-versa). Phyllostachys atrovaginata,
P. heteroclada, P. nidularia, and P. parvifolia, as well as Arundinaria tecta, have air
canals in their rhizomes that act sort of like snorkels, so as long as they get a dry
period, they can take a seasonal wetting with no problem. We recommend importing
a generous amount of loose potting soil to imporve the drainage conditions for the
initial planting.
Can I plant bamboo by my pool/pond?
Yes, but if you plant a Runner you should put barrier between the pool and the
bamboo, as well as edging the plant, because bamboo will actively seek water and
so can damage the pool in some cases. You also should remember that bamboo
sheds a lot, so you will have quite few leaves in your pool, unless you plant a
bamboo species with larger leaves, such as Sasa or Hibanobambusa.
Which bamboo make the densest screens?
All Fargesia will grow in tight clusters, creating dense screens of foliage. The
densest Phyllostachys include P. aurea, P. aureosulcata, P. nidularia, P. heteroclada,
P. bissetii and P. stimulosa. Other bamboo that make good screens are
Semiarundinaria fastuosa, Pleioblastus chino, Pseudosasa japonica, and
Indocalamus latifolius. For a full list of bamboo for screens, see bamboo screens.
As a rule, bamboo with larger diameter canes will not have foliage lower down on
the cane, so if you need dense screening all the way to the ground, choose a
smaller species. A mature grove of tall bamboo, such as Phyllostachys nigra Henon,
will not have foliage at the lower level, but there are usually enough canes to create
a visual block from the ground up to where the foliage begins. Bamboo will naturally
grow denser every year. Shorter bamboos such as Pseudosasa and Sasa, and
Fargesia usually grow very dense.
Will bamboo damage my retaining wall/house foundation?
Usually not but it can if the foundation is old and already failing. In general, we
recommend not planting a bamboo too close to the side of the house; leave a
couple of feet for maintenance. You can install a barrier along the foundation,
keeping some space between it and the bamboo for maintenance. We have seen
bamboo squished up against a house coming up through the siding. There was even
one memorable occasion when a foundation without underground footing had been

installed, and the bamboo came up inside the house through the heating ducts!
These are extreme cases that can be easily prevented by proper annual
maintenance, and not allowing the bamboo to grow tightly along the side of a
house.
I want to try growing bamboo from seed. Where can I get some?
Bamboo is a very unusual plant in that most species dont set seed all that often.
Phyllostachys aurea, for example, is on a 50-year flowering cycle, and Fargesia all
seem to be on 100 to 120-year flowering cycles. There are even some bamboo that
have not been seen flowering in Chinas 3000+ years of recorded history. Also,
when they set seed, the seed isnt always viable. For these reasons bamboo seed
from specific species is usually not available.
We have grown over 20,000 seedlings from Fargesia murielae and F. nitida at
Bamboo Garden. Young seedlings are very sensitive for 2-3 years before they finally
stabilize; until then they do best in a controlled environment, such as a heated
greenhouse, in order to flourish and grow on to a size that can be planted out in the
elements.
That being said, theres always some bamboo in flower, so you can usually find
supplies of seed online. Just be sure to purchase from a reliable source, or theres no
telling what you could get. You can also contact the American Bamboo Society, as
members could have some seed available for purchase. Growing form seeds will
certainly not save time and effort to produce a bamboo grove or screen, but it can
be a fun, educational process.
When do you fertilize?
Bamboo is dormant in the winter, so the best time to fertilize is in the spring and
summer. We usually fertilize our groves in February, about 1-2 months before the
bamboos shooting period, and again in the July or August, as the rhizomes are
expanding. Fertilizing isnt usually necessary if the bamboo is in the ground, but
often will promote larger growth with greener foliage. If the bamboo is in a
container, it may need to be fed more often to maintain good appearance. The
application rate depends on the type of fertilizer used.
What kind of fertilizer do you use?
For bamboo in the ground, organic fertilizer, such as mushroom compost, aged
horse manure, fish meal, feather meal, or blood meal are all good options.
Composts will break down into a layer of rich topsoil which provides the bamboo a
premium growing area and a source of food. For a commercial fertilizer that can be
broadcast on top, and for bamboo in pots, we use a slow-release turf fertilizer. 21-56 is the formulation we use (21 nitrogen, 5 phosphate, 6 potash). The formulation is
not critical, but bamboo will respond well to high nitrogen. Follow the application
rate specified on the fertilizer package. Over fertilizing bamboo is difficult to do, but
excessive amounts of nitrogen can lead to aphid problems or weakened canes.
Are bamboo drought tolerant?

Clumpers are more drought tolerant than runners because they root fairly deep, but
runners have higher tolerance of dry, hot air. In particular, Semiarundinaria
fastuosa, Phyllostachys decora, P. aurea, and P. glauca Yunzhu are very tolerant of
dry, desert climates. See Landscape Uses.
Bamboo planted in dry climates needs to be watered regularly for the first 3-4 years
until it becomes well rooted.
How much water does bamboo require?
Ideally, about an inch a week, the same as a law (in 1-3 applications per week). In
many climates, after the bamboo has been in the ground for 3-5 years, water is no
longer necessary for survival. Keep in mind, bamboo that doesnt get a regular
watering during the summer wont look as good as bamboo that does.
Do deer eat bamboo?
Not usually, however in the Southeastern US, bamboo is native, so sometimes the
deer will recognize it as a food source. Sometimes they will discover the new shoots
and eat a few, but it has never been a serious problem for us.
What kinds of pests and diseases can bamboo get?
Bamboo is usually pest-free; however some species are prone to aphids. There is
also a bamboo mite, an import from Asia, that can damage the leaves. However, as
the mite is not native and is spread only by bamboo-to-bamboo contact, as long as
your bamboo doesnt have them and your neighbors bamboo doesnt have them,
odds are youll never have any problems. Both of these issues are usually more
cosmetic than a real threat to the plant.
In the South, in a coastal climate, Phyllostachys can develop brown spots on the
canes due to a harmless fungus. There have also been reports in the Southeast of a
disease that top kills bamboo, but nothing has been discovered as to the cause.
How do I get rid of bamboo?
Bamboo isnt complicated to remove, but it is physically demanding. Especially if
youre dealing with a Semiarundinaria or a Bashania, which can run deep, and have
very brittle rhizomes that break easily.
Phyllostachys are easier to remove, as the rhizomes are flexible rather than brittle,
so its easier to pull the whole rhizome out of the ground in one go. They also prefer
to keep their rhizomes very shallow, which makes them easier to locate.
Try to follow every rhizome and get it out of the ground. If not possible, you can
leave fragmented rhizomes in the ground which will produce small, wispy new
shoots if they are no longer attached to a mature plant. Cut off the new shoots after
they start to produce new leaves. This will deplete the rhizomes' energy if they
cannot photosynthesize. They will gradually rot out of the ground.

Be sure to use a heavy-duty, all-steel shovel (the King of Spades shovels we carry,
for example) as shovels with wooden or fiberglass handles will most likely break.
Stump grinders, if you can get one into the area, are a good method for removing a
dense mat of rhizomes quickly and effectively.
Another method is to cut the bamboo to the ground, and continue to remove all new
growth as soon as it comes up. This eventually starves the bamboo out, but can
take as long as three years to complete. Unfortunately, this also leaves the
rhizomes in the soil, which makes replanting the area difficult.
If youre local you can call us for on site consultation.
Does Roundup work on bamboo?
Not really. It will often cause the new shoots to abort, but the rhizomes can continue
to spread underground. You need heavy applications of seriously toxic chemicals to
spray bamboo out and have it be effective. We do not recommend this, with regard
to protect
If I dump salt on my bamboo will that kill it?
Most likely not; the amount of salt needed to seriously harm or kill a bamboo is
massive. But in areas of extensive salt build-up, such as roadsides, the part of the
bamboo exposed to a large amount of salt probably wont flourish.
What types of clumping bamboo do you carry?
We grow many different kinds of clumping bamboo. For cold hardy clumpers see this
link: Hardy Clumping Bamboo
For subtropical clumping bamboo for the south, see cold -sensitive clumping
bamboo
How many plants are in each pot?
One plant has multiple canes connected by a root system. If you try to separate the
canes, especially with our 1 and 2 gallon sizes, theres a good chance youll kill the
plant, especially if done in the summer or winter. It is not necessary to pull the roots
apart to promote faster growth, usually manipulating bamboo roots is
counterproductive. It is possible to make divisions of your bamboo for future
plantings elsewhere, but we recommend waiting at least 3 years before digging
starts from your original plant. Removing pieces of the plant when it is still young
will drastically slow down the growth rate.
How large are bamboos you supply and ship?
Our Standard shipping sizes for UPS Boxes are 1 through 5 gallon bamboos, with 10
gallons shipped on a pallet. The height of the individual plant varies depending on
the species. In general a 1 gallon size plant is 1-2 feet tall, 1-2 canes, sometimes 34 feet. A 2 gallon is 2-3 feet on average, 2-3 canes, but can be as tall as 5 feet. A 5
gallon is usually 3-5 feet tall, 3-5 canes, but can be as big as 7 feet, but plants of

this size are difficult to ship by standard UPS methods. Fargesia tend to be shorter
and bushier than Phyllostachys; a 5 gallon F. sp. Rufa might be 3 1/2 feet tall with
20+ canes, while a P. aureosulcata Spectabilis might be 5 feet tall with three canes
that are a thicker diameter. Some kinds of ground cover bamboo only grow to 2
feet tall at maturity, so even a five gallon plant would be about 1 foot tall, but could
contain as many as 40 + short bushy canes. You are always welcome to call to
inquire about the specific height of the bamboo you wish to purchase. We guarantee
our bamboo to arrive in healthy condition, ready to plant in the landscape.
We can ship 10 to 15 gallon bamboo on a pallet via UPS Freight or other LTL freight
carriers. Call to inquire about details.
We also regularly ship very tall bamboo, 20 - 40 feet, in containers using 53 foot
refrigerated semi truck. We supply many commercial landscaping projects and even
some larger residential jobs, or large retail garden centers. The main concern is
that the unloading area can accommodate a truck of that size. If you want truly
large bamboo delivered to your door, usually we can find a way to make it happen
for a reasonable cost. Imagine an instant 30 foot tall screen, by 30 feet in length, to
completely screen out your neighbors new 3 story monstrosity. With large timber
bamboo, such as Phyllostachys, this is a very real possibility; we do it all the time,
just give us a call to discuss details. 503-647-2700
Is bamboo edible?
Many species have edible new shoots. All the Phyllostachys, for example, are edible,
although some of them have a bitter or stringent after taste when eaten raw. Many
Chusquea shoots are also very tasty.
Usually the canned bamboo shoots you buy in stores are Phyllostachys edulis (from
China) or, if imported from Thailand, Dendrocalamus asper. The best tasting shoots
from bamboo that can be grown in the US come from Phyllostachys edulis, P. vivax,
P. dulcis, P. stimulosa, P. plattyglossa, P. nidularia, P. parvifolia, P. atrovaginata, and
Qiongzhuea tumidissinoda.
The young leaves of bamboo in the Sasa genus can be cooked while still rolled up
and eaten, as well. They are also used to wrap and cook rice.
Can I prune bamboo?
Yes. Bamboo canes will not grow any taller once they are topped, so it is a once-ayear process of cutting the younger canes after they leaf out. Cut the cane just
above the node. Because bamboo cannot regain the lost height, it will get bushier in
response to the pruning. Just be sure to leave some branches on the cane,
otherwise the individual cane will die back to ground level . You can find a guide to
pruning bamboo here: Bamboo care
Is there a clumping bamboo that has large diameter canes and is cold hardy?
No. At best, an inch diameter is the largest cane you can achieve from cold hardy
clumpers. Borinda macclureana, Chusquea culeou, C. gigantea, and Fargesia

robusta, and Thamnocalamus tesselatus are among the largest diameter of cold
tolerant clumpers.
If you want fat canes in a cold climates (Zone 5 through 8), you need to plant a
Phyllostachys. (which are running) The biggest canes come from more aggressive
runners, like P. dulcis, P. vivax, and P. edulis Moso.
Which bamboo has the strongest wood?
Phyllostachys edulis is usually used for flooring and scaffolding; P. bambusoides is
used for furniture and instruments (as it is both strong and flexible), and Guadua
angustifolia is used for building construction. P. nigra Henon and P. atrovaginata
also have strong wood and straight canes. See this section of our website for
information about bamboo canes.
Is bamboo harmful to pets?
No. Animals will often chew on it, but the leaves are actually rather nutritious and
totally non-toxic (which is why, if you have horses, goats, cows, or sheep, you can
use bamboo for a nutritious winter forage crop). Lucky Bamboo (growing in water
and rocks), which isnt a bamboo at all but a member of the lily family, IS toxic to
pets and should be kept out of their reach.
Will bamboo break in the wind?
Some species, especially those with weaker canes, like Phyllostachys vivax, can
break in the snow, but it is rare for the canes to actually break on account of the
wind. Most bamboo just bend in bad weather and then pop back upright. Overall the
most upright bamboo during severe storms have been P. edulis, P. angusta, and P.
atrovaginata. If the soil is too loose at the surface, or the bamboo roots have been
compromised by voles and gophers, strong wind and snow may uproot individual
canes.
Why is my bamboo leaning?
Small diameter canes will lean more, pulled down by the weight of the foliage.
Bamboo in shade leans quite a bit looking for light. Snow, ice, and to a lesser
extent, rain, can weigh down canes. Sometimes younger canes will have trouble
coming back upright after a heavy snow load is dumped on them. Newly planted
bamboo, during the first three years of life in a new location, will often produce
smaller, weepier canes as it is getting established. Sometimes during the summer,
rhizome tips emerge from the ground and try to become canes. These we call
"whips" and usually remove from mature bamboos. If the plant is less than two
years old, let it produce whips if it decides to do so ~the foliage from them may
produce the extra photosynthesis needed for the bamboo to grow faster. Removing
them is usually of little consequence other than cosmetics. They can also be tied or
staked up, if it seems important to you.
Which Clumping Bamboos are fully sun tolerant?

Most hardy clumpers are shade loving plants, but there are a few that can tolerate
more sun than others.
Thamnocalamus tesselatus actually flourishes in full in in the PNW, but may require
some shade if grown in an area that commonly has high humidity in the summer.
Fargesia robusta, Fargesia sp. 'Scabrida', and Fargesia sp. 'Rufa' can tolerate nearly
full sun in the Pacific Northwest, but require at least a little relief from the afternoon
sun if planted anywhere else in the country. The above cold hardy bamboos will not
grow in the south. Cold hardy clumping bamboo
For sun loving clumpers in hot southern climates where there is minimal frost in the
winter, use bamboo belonging to the Bambusa genus.
Is there a black cold hardy clumping bamboo?
There are several bamboo that have dark canes and are clumping that are coldhardy, but they dont get very big. These are Fargesia Jiuzhaigou IV, F. nitida, and
Chusquea culeou Cana Prieta. If you want large diameter, black canes in a cooler
climate, the only option is Phyllostachys nigra which is a runner..
I want a very large diameter bamboo that is short-15'. Does that exist?
Not really. Cane diameter directly related to height, so for truly massive canes you
need a taller bamboo. You can, however, grow a tall bamboo and keep it topped to a
certain height. We have seen P. dulcis over 3 inches in diameter, but topped to
about 15 feet in height. P. dulcis has fat canes, with compact space between the
nodes, which give it the largest diameter in relation to height among the Timber
Bamboos.
Is lucky bamboo a bamboo?
No. Its a Dracaena, usually Dracaena sanderiana, which is a member of the lily
family.
http://www.bamboogarden.com/FAQ%20general.htm

https://lewisbamboo.com/knowledge-base/frequently-asked-bamboo-questions/
Do you have any bamboo seeds I can purchase?
Sorry, bamboo flowers very seldom and the seeds are only viable for a very short
time. Some species have never been documented flowering while others go 100
years or longer between flowering. Seeds are often available from other countries
such as China, but these are usually confiscated by custom authorities as they enter
the country and discarded. Seeds are subject to the same quarantine regulations as
live plants (Notice of Quarantine, 7 CFR 319.34). Bamboo seeds bought on E-Bay
are buyer beware and not recommended. Propagation by seeds is a very difficult
task and high attrition rates will be experienced.
How do I control bamboo?
Temperate bamboo typically flowers on 75 year cycles and has a very poor seed set.
Bamboo spreads through rhizome (root) expansion. Control the root expansion and
you will control bamboo.
There are some leaves turning yellow on my bamboo, is it dying?
This is normal throughout the year, however it is most noticeable during the Spring
time. All leaves will be replaced over the course of one year, so naturally you will
see a lot of yellow and brown foliage as the new leaves form in the Spring.
Temperate bamboo are evergreen and if all is well with the planting, it should never
be completely barren. The tips of the leaves are often brown and this can be caused
by many factors. In most cases it is wind damage, but it can also be caused from
improper watering.

How often do I water and fertilize my new bamboo?

Watering
During the first few of weeks, water the plant regularly. Soak the soil and spray the
leaves. Bamboo likes water but loves drainage. Water heavily but make sure that
you are allowing your planting site time to drain between watering cycles. This time
can vary depending upon time of year, soil composition, slope, etc.
Fertilizng
We have our custom mix Bamboo Fertilizer available. It consist of a time release
fertilizer accompanied by a bamboo biochar additive to allow time for proper
absorption rate. It is the best mixture we have found after 20 years of trials. We
fertilize twice a year. Fertilize in early spring (to encourage new growth) and then
again during the middle of the growing season (replace any nutrients that may be
getting depleted).
When is the best time to plant bamboo?
You can plant temperate bamboo anytime the ground is workable. We dig and plant
year-round in climate zone 7a. In colder areas planting is best done during the
Spring, Summer, and early Fall.
Can I mix different varieties of bamboo?
Yes, they will grow together fine. If you allow plenty of room there will not be any
problems. If you contain the species to a small area then you should plant only one
species. Larger timber bamboo species need plenty of room to spread and reach
mature sizes. Smaller ground or shrub height bamboo will grow fine among the
larger species.
How much sun or shade will my new bamboo need?
Sun
The general rule is the larger the bamboo, the more direct sunlight it requires. The
large temperate species of bamboo such as the ones we grow are woodland under
story plants. They are found in their natural habitat at the edge of forests. They will
grow into the shaded areas and outward into full sunlight. Smaller shrub bamboo
under 16 feet in height require less direct sunlight conditions and will be more likely
to thrive in partly shaded planting sites. Ground cover bamboo 6 feet and under
love shaded sites and will look best out of the direct sunlight.
Shade
This term is confusing to many and hopefully we can shed some light on the subject
( sorry ).There are basically three categories of shaded sites, -light, moderate and
dense. There are types of bamboo for all shade and sun conditions.
Light Shade Moderate amount of sunlight. It is consider partial shade because it is
only blocked by smaller structures. Plants with small leaves that produce a thin
canopy. Most all bamboo do well in this environment.
Moderate Shade The second type of shade are sites where the sunlight gets
through during different times of the day. This type of shade changes with the time

of year and day. It is provided by natural obstructions such as trees and bushes.
Ground cover and shrub bamboo do well in these planting sites. Timber bamboo are
slower to establish their root system (rhizomes) in these planting sites. Once
established, timber bamboo can do quite well with the grove having a tall canopy of
foliage due to the reduced lighting. Lower limbs on the canes are usually absent in
these shaded sites. The bamboo compensates by producing more canes and taller
canes.
Dense Shade These sites never receive direct sunlight during any season of the
year. These sites are not in the forest, but within the city where buildings,
overhangs and other man made structures completely block sunlight year around.
Sites under most trees will receive filtered sun during Fall and Winter months unless
the trees are evergreen. Evergreen trees can provide deep shade if the branches
and foliage are dense enough. Ground cover and shrub bamboo do fair in these
planting sites.
How to plant my new bamboo?
Please plant the new bamboo as soon as possible. If you cannot plant the bamboo
within a day or two, just open the wrapping on the top of each root ball. Add 1 cup
of water every two days until you can plant them. Provide plenty of light, but keep
out of the direct sun so the root ball will not dry out completely until planted.
Handle your bamboo by the root ball only. Remove all packing material (tape and
Paper) from around the plant, being careful not to damage the root ball or any new
shoots.) If new shoots, limbs or foliage is broken, the bamboo will replace these.
Dig the hole at least 1/3 larger than the root ball. The larger the soil area you loosen
up, the faster the bamboo will spread. Dig each planting site 2 to 6 inches deeper
than the root ball size you have selected. Back fill your holes with good topsoil
mixed with some composted material such as composted manure that any
Gardening shop sells. In our area this sells for around $2 for a 40lb. bag. This will
help the rhizomes (roots) get off to a good start no matter what soil conditions you
may have. Make a doughnut depression to help keep the water around the plant.
Always mulch to help retain the moisture, add insulation and retard competitive
growth.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bamboo
http://halfsidebamboo.info/http:/halfsidebamboo.info/wordpress/96/bamboo-plantparts-i/
Bamboo Plant Parts I
by PHILINSHELTON on JANUARY 22, 2009
in BAMBOO BASICS,BOTANICAL
Above the Ground
You need to know the names of the major plant parts and have a basic
understanding of what they do in order to understand how bamboo grows and
understand my articles on growing and maintaining bamboo. This is a two part
article on basic morphology. In this article, you will learn about the parts of bamboo

that grow above ground. Click on a keyword to see a picture, and click in the
picture to close it.
Culms
The main stem of a bamboo is called a culm. The culm is the support structure for
the branches and leaves, and conatains the main vascular system for the transport
of water, nutrients and food. Culms aslo serve as food storage organs. The culm is
made up of jointed segments. The joints are called nodes, and the area between
nodes is called an internode. The nodes of a bamboo are always solid, and the
internodes of most bamboos are hollow. By splitting a bamboo culm lengthwise, you
can see the solid plates inside the culm at the nodes, and the hollow internode. The
hollow internodes give the stem flexibility, and the plates give the stem strength
and keep it from buckling under stress.
Branches
Branching occurs at the nodes, on alternate sides of the culm. In the vast majority
of bamboos I grow, the branches are smaller than the culms. Successive branches
dwindle in size, finally terminating in the foliage leaves. The way the branches are
arranged can often help to identify a bamboo. For example, bamboos in the genus
Phyllostachys have a similar branch complement containing two secondary
branches.
Foliage Leaves
The foliage leaves are the food producing organs. The green part of the leaf is
called the blade. The leaf blade is attached to a leaf sheath, which encloses and
protects the newest leaf emerging from the growing tip.
Culm Leaves
The culms also have leaves, but their primary purpose is to protect the new culms
in the early stages of growth. Most of the leaf is comprised of a protective sheath
with a very small leaf blade, so the whole leaf is often called a culm sheath. The
sheaths are attached at the nodes, opening on alternate sides of the culm. In the
earliest stages of growth, the sheath completely surrounds and protects the new
shoot. Later on, the sheath dries up and in most bamboos, eventually falls away.
Like the culms, the new growth of every segment of every branch is covered with a
protective sheath. These also dry up and eventually fall away.
Thats the very basics jointed stems, solid nodes, foliage leaves and culm leaves,
protective sheath on all stems. To learn about the underground parts of a bamboo
plant, read Bamboo Plant Parts II
Bamboo Plant Parts II
by PHILINSHELTON on JANUARY 28, 2009
in BAMBOO BASICS,BOTANICAL
Under the Soil
In this article, you will learn about two different types of rhizome, leptomorph and
pachymorph. Youll also learn about about the roots, which are not rhizomes. You
can click on a keyword to see a picture, then click in the picture to close it.
Leptomorph Rhizome

Bamboos have underground stems called rhizomes, which transport water and
nutrients, store food, and along with the roots, anchor the plant to the soil.
Leptomorph rhizomes grow laterally near the soil surface, and are capable of very
rapid growth. This is an exposed leptomorph rhizome of Incense Bamboo that grew
about thirteen feet in a single growing season. Leptomorph rhizomes are very
similar to culms and branches, having nodes and internodes, as well as a sheath
that protects each segment. Instead of branches, the buds occurring at the nodes
will either grow into another rhizome, or grow into a culm (a newly developing culm
is referred to as a shoot). Along with culm and rhizome buds, root buds also form at
rhizome nodes, which develop into anchor and feeder roots; the larger roots are the
anchoring roots, and the little fibrous roots absorb water and nutrients from the
soil. Larger bamboos also have anchoring roots at the base of the culm, which you
can see in the picture below of a developing shoot.
Pachymorph Rhizome
In contrast to a leptomorph rhizome, a pachymorph rhizome turns upward and
grows into a culm. New rhizome buds form on the rhizome neck at the base of the
culm, which in turn, grow upward into a new culm. The picture below shows all
three of these: rhizome neck, new rhizome bud, and new culm
Some key differences between the two rhizomes you should remember are:
leptomorph rhizomes can grow many feet over the growing season, and have buds
along their length that will grow into new rhizomes or culms. Pachymorph rhizomes
will, each and every one, grow into a culm. Can you guess which of these rhizome
types correspond with the terms running and clumping?

http://www.gardenguides.com/68487-bamboo-plants-reproduce.html
How Bamboo Plants Reproduce
Bamboo Clumps
Bamboo commonly grows in clumps. A stalk of bamboo will grow from a seed or
rhizome. The stalk produces rhizomes and roots beneath the soil. New stalks appear
around the first stalk and within eight years, the original stalk has reached its

maturity. The soil beneath the topsoil may become so thick with roots and rhizomes
that it is impossible to dig without the aid of saws and picks. This formation of a
clump through spreading rhizomes is partly responsible for the classification of
bamboo as a grass. Bamboo is one of the world's fastest growing plants and under
optimum conditions, may grow almost four feet in a day--fast enough that some say
you can hear it growing.
Self Seeding
Many bamboo species flower only when environmental changes threaten the clump.
The entire clump will cease growing or producing leaves--it puts all its stored energy
and food into flowering and producing seeds. The mature seeds fall to the ground
and germinate in as little as three to five days. The clump and all its rhizomes,
depleted of food of and energy, dies. A few species flower yearly, although sparsely,
and produce a few seeds without dying. These two factors contribute to the scarcity
of seed available to gardeners and production growers alike. If your bamboo
flowers, it may signal that the clump is going to die. Plant the seeds as soon they
are mature. Bury the bulb end of the seed that contains the embryo.
Rhizomes
Bamboo is a grass and easily expands its clumps through rhizomes. Rhizomes grow
from other rhizomes and send shoots up to the surface, and roots down into the
ground. The shoots become new stalks, fed by the root system growing below the
rhizomes. By the time the stalks are one year old, the rhizome attached has sent off
other rhizomes to grow more shoots. The rhizomes are intertwined with the
rhizomes from other shoots; they are all interconnected and interdependent. The
stalks (called culms), rhizomes and roots all grow and form the same way. The tip
grows out and forms a new node, which is covered in a sheath that is quickly
replaced. The nodes start out very close to each other and as the plant grows, each
node expands along its length and girth until the plant reaches maturity.
Propagation Techniques
In a process called layering, one-year-old stalks are bent over and buried in a
shallow trench--new shoots grow from the stalk's nodes. Divide clumps into smaller
clumps by digging around the edges so that only the newest rhizomes are taken
from the edges of the existing clump. The older rhizomes near the center of the
clump will produce very few or no new rhizomes. Taking vegetative cuttings is
another method of propagation with mixed results, depending on the age of the
stalks and the species of bamboo. Some species are very aggressive, producing
many fast growing rhizomes. These species make poor landscape plants, taking
over a yard in a short time.