Planting Position: Full sun through to partial shade
Soil: Suited to Loam and Chalk. Moist but well drained
Eventual height and spread: Eventual height of 8 metres with a spread of 4 metres
Foliage: tall canes, grooved on alternate sides with approx 2 leafy branches on each node
Evergreen: Yes
Winter hardy: -5
Pruning: Not necessary
Suitable for container: Yes
BAMBOO ROOTBARRIER
A bamboo root barrier is a physical barrier designed to prevent running bamboo species from spreading beyond their intended area. Here’s how to create and maintain an effective root barrier:
1. Material Selection
- Plastic or Composite: Use high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or other durable plastic materials. Some composite materials are also effective.
- Depth: The barrier should be at least 24 to 36 inches deep, depending on the species and its growth habits.
2. Installation Steps
- Plan the Layout: Determine the area you want to contain the bamboo and mark the boundaries.
- Dig a Trench: Dig a trench around the marked area, ensuring it’s deep enough to accommodate the barrier.
- Install the Barrier: Place the barrier vertically into the trench. Ensure it’s at least 1-2 inches above ground to prevent rhizomes from arching over the top.
- Backfill the Trench: Refill the trench with soil, compacting it around the barrier to secure it in place.
3. Maintenance
- Regular Checks: Periodically inspect the barrier for any signs of damage or root escape.
- Trim Roots: If any rhizomes grow close to the barrier, trim them back to keep them from breaking through.
4. Consider Alternatives
- Concrete or Steel Barriers: In high-growth situations, consider using concrete or metal for a more permanent solution.
- Planting in Containers: For smaller areas, planting bamboo in large pots or containers can also effectively contain growth.
Ornamental Bamboo with yellow striped culms
Are they evergreen
Bamboo are an evergreen, perennial and a member of the grass family. Fast growing, they take up very little lateral space and yet they can reach fabulous heights extremely quickly, making bamboo a very cost effective choice when you need screening fast! They will naturally shed some leaf during the winter months.
How much water do they need
Like any other plant, bamboo needs three basic things in order to survive. Soil, sun and water. And as a gardener, one of your greatest responsibilities is to provide your bamboo with water. They are an incredibly thirsty plant and will require watering on a daily basis especially during hot periods. .
Will it need a root barrier
Fargesia are a non invasive clumping bamboo and will not require a root barrier. Phyllostachys, Aureosulcata and Pseudosasa are all ‘runners’ which can be either planted in a larger pot or with a root barrier in the ground.
How quickly will it grow
This really is dependent on watering sunshine and care. You would hope to achieve at least another third in growth during the growing season.
How far apart should I plant them
Space mature plants 1 metre apart to form a dense screen. Fast Growing varieties can be planted a little further apart if you don't mind waiting longer for them to fill in the gaps.
