Growing Bamboo
Growing Bamboo is extremely easy. It's popularity has increased steadily,
ever since Giant Pandas were brought to zoos in the U.S. in the early 1970's.
Native to China, Bamboo is the favorite food of Panda Bears. Fast growing
and prolific, bamboo can grow 20 feet in a season!
There are several hundred varieties of bamboo. They can be divided into two
groups: clumping and running varieties. The running types are considered
invasive, as they readily spread their roots far and wide. Just ask the folks
at the Washington, D.C. zoo. The growing area for runners should be contained
in some manner.
Bamboo is popularly grown indoors and out. Bamboo is also great in containers
on patios or decks. We recommend you use a large container.
Bamboo is a lucky symbol, bringing you good fortune. This is a major
cause to its popularity. It is most notably a symbol to be lucky in love.
Propagation:
Bamboo can be grown from Rhizomes. They multiply and spread rapidly. They
are easy to transplant. Dig up rhizomes, divide them, and replant in the
desired area.
How to Grow Bamboo:
The basic varieties are categorized as clumping or running, which describes
the growth and spread of the plants. If you want to plant them in contained
groups, choose the clumping type. This is the best for containers.
If you want them for a hedgerow, or to fill a large area, use the running
types.
Tip: When selecting and buying bamboo, ask questions about its
characteristics. With several hundred varieties, height, appearance and growing
characteristics can make a big difference in the setting you will grow them
in.
Prepare the area you want to grow your bamboo in. Dig up and loosen the soil,
removing weeds. Dig a hole and fill with lots of rich, loose soil. Do not
use fertilizer or manure when planting, as this can burn the roots. Plant
rhizomes 1-2 inches deep. If you have a plant, it should be planted about
level with where it is in the container, perhaps an inch or so deeper. Mulch
around the plants, and keep the soil moist. One the plants are established,
allow the soil to dry a little between watering.
Tip: Bamboo will tell you when its thirsty. The leaves will begin
to roll up.
Bamboo plants will grow well in full sun to partial shade. They are shade
tolerant, and will look good in shade gardens. They prefer rich, well draining
soil. The roots do not like wet soil.
Add a general purpose fertilizer once a month to promote fast, lush growth.
Controlling Invasive Growth:
Running varieties of Bamboo is invasive. You will likely want to contain
them. Streambeds or ponds make a natural barrier. A wide sidewalk will also
contain them. Border edging should be 24-30" inches deep to stop the
runners.
Insects, Pests, and Disease:
If insect or disease problems occur, treat early with organic or chemical
insect repellents and fungicide.
Giant Panda Bears love bamboo. Fortunately, pandas are not on the roam
in your area.
More Information:
Buy
bamboo houseplants - for you, or as a gift
How to Grow Bamboo Indoors
Panda Mania -
All about Panda Bears
Online
Fortune Cookies
More info
on Bamboo
Buy Flower, Vegetable and Herb Seeds Finest quality
Ferry Morse Seed, America's oldest seed company with their famous "guarantee
to grow". |
