Guide to Planting a Bamboo Fence

Buzz

Content

Steps to Follow

Strategizing

Planting

Caring for Your Plant

Essentials

Bamboo, a rapidly growing woody grass boasting over 1000 species, evokes both admiration and disdain due to its swift growth and tendency to spread. With thoughtful consideration, bamboo can be transformed into an eco-friendly and aesthetically pleasing natural barrier or fence in your yard.

Steps to Follow

Strategizing

Identify and measure the ideal spot for planting your bamboo fence. Keeping a distance of 1.5 feet from any underground structures is recommended to prevent root-related issues.

Prior to any digging beyond 6 inches underground, always contact (811).
Bamboo thrives in areas with partial to full sunlight.
Ensure consistent watering, similar to that of regular lawn grass.
Opt for well-drained soil and avoid waterlogged areas.

Identify your hardiness zone and select bamboo species suitable for that zone. Refer to bamboo databases to discover species thriving in your area.

Choose between running (leptomorph) or clumping (pachymorph) bamboo.

Running bamboo grows faster and is simpler to cultivate but may spread uncontrollably. Therefore, running bamboo should be contained within pots or surrounded by well-constructed underground barriers.
Clumping bamboo grows slower but is easier to manage, making it the recommended option.

Determine the desired height for your bamboo fence. Bamboo can grow from 2 feet to 100 feet tall. Online resources typically provide maximum growth heights for each species.

Under ideal conditions and after several years, bamboo may reach its maximum height. However, typically bamboo grows to around 70% of its maximum height.

Select your preferred aesthetic. Bamboo exhibits a range of stem and leaf colors.

In certain bamboo species, leaves change color in autumn and shed. Others maintain their leaf color year-round.
Different species display varying shapes. The primary factor influencing shape is whether the bamboo is clumping or running, although variation exists within each type.

Locate a retailer specializing in bamboo. Consider searching local nurseries or exploring online vendors.

Evaluate the age of the plant you intend to use. While younger plants are more economical, they require at least 3 years to reach maturity. Bamboo plants rarely produce seeds, so this guide focuses on utilizing potted plants.

Refer to an example. Understanding the factors involved for your selected species can be simpler with an example. Here are key details for the bamboo species Fargesia denudata:

It prefers shaded environments
It thrives in USDA zones 4-9. Detroit falls within zone 6b.

It is a clumping variety, minimizing concerns of spreading to neighboring yards.
It reaches a maximum height of 15 feet, indicating an expected height of 6-9 feet in Detroit
The foliage remains green year-round
It is readily available and hence inexpensive ($20 for a 1-3 feet tall plant)

Planting

Determine the timing for planting. Young, shade-loving bamboo is sensitive to intense sunlight. Plant them in spring to allow for growth.

Bamboo newly planted in summer may suffer from afternoon sun, requiring time to establish before winter.
In warmer regions, fall planting is feasible.

Plan the placement of plants. Planting bamboo closely together isn't problematic. For a dense fence using young bamboo, allocate 1-3 feet between each potted plant. The hole diameter should be twice the diameter of the root ball.

Ensure bamboo is at least 1.5 feet away from permanent underground structures, as bamboo roots are robust and can penetrate most materials.

Prepare the planting hole. *The hole's diameter should be double that of the root ball, while its depth should match the height of the root ball plus a few extra inches.

Add organic material such as compost to the bottom of the hole.

Position the bamboo plant into the hole.

Backfill the hole with soil. Use a mixture of compost and local soil, aiming for a composition of 50% compost or organic material for optimal bamboo growth. Ensure the top of the root ball is level with the surface.

Apply mulch over the soil. A depth of 2 inches or more is recommended to retain moisture, as bamboo thrives in moist environments.

Unlike trees, you can apply the mulch up to the stem of the bamboo plant. Bamboo, being a forest plant, prefers having its roots covered with more than just soil.

Caring for Your Plant

Anticipate growth. Bamboo typically grows at a rate of 1-3 feet per year, with certain species capable of reaching up to 10 feet in a single year.

For each existing shoot, expect a new one to emerge the following year. If your bamboo plant currently has 5 shoots, anticipate having 10 next year.

Apply fertilizer twice annually. Use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) similar to what is used for grass.

Keep your bamboo hydrated. Increase watering during the establishment phase, watering 1-2 times weekly for the initial 3-6 months.

Provide a similar amount of water as you would for lawn grass.
Ensure the soil drains well.
Mulching with leaves, grass clippings, or wood chips helps retain moisture and reduces the need for watering.

Monitor root spread (rhizomes).

Inspect running bamboo roots twice yearly and trim if necessary.
Check clumping bamboo roots every other year and trim if required.

Get ready for winter.

Ensure the roots are shielded with a generous layer of mulch (approximately 3 inches thick).

Prune, mainly for visual appeal. To encourage a fuller plant, prune less. For a slender appearance, trim more. Cutting halts growth permanently at the point of pruning.

Trim during late summer or autumn.
Make cuts above nodes.

Pointers

If your bamboo is ailing, reconsider its watering regimen and sunlight exposure.
Youthful bamboo is sensitive to intense summer sunlight. Provide shade during these times.
Following planting, bamboo requires ample water. Water daily, ensuring the soil has time to drain adequately.

Cautionary Notes

Running bamboo possesses a root structure that enables it to trespass almost any boundary within a few years, producing new shoots. Many bamboo species are highly invasive, leading to the implementation of planting regulations in numerous states. Exercise caution when dealing with running bamboo, and consider confining it to pots. Even clumping bamboo requires vigilant monitoring.

Essentials

Shovel
Compost
Bamboo transplants
Measuring device
Rake

Mytour's content is for customer care and travel encouragement only, and we are not responsible.

For errors or inappropriate content, please contact us at: [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors should I consider when choosing bamboo species?

When selecting bamboo species, consider your hardiness zone, the growth habit (running vs. clumping), and desired height and aesthetic. Research databases to find suitable options for your area.

How should I prepare the planting hole for bamboo?

To prepare the planting hole, ensure it is twice the diameter of the root ball and matches its height. Add organic material like compost to promote healthy growth.

What maintenance does bamboo require after planting?

After planting, bamboo requires regular watering, especially during the establishment phase, and should be fertilized twice annually. Mulching can help retain moisture and reduce watering frequency.

Can bamboo roots cause issues with underground structures?

Yes, bamboo roots can penetrate underground structures. It's important to plant bamboo at least 1.5 feet away from any permanent underground installations to avoid potential damage.

What is the growth rate of bamboo under ideal conditions?

Bamboo typically grows 1-3 feet per year, with some species able to reach up to 10 feet in a single growing season. Growth can vary based on species and conditions.