How to Control Bamboo in Your Garden
Bamboo can be truly beautiful early on when you first plant it. The rustling of the leaves in the wind and the elegant stems make it seem like the perfect plant.
Unfortunately, bamboo is an invasive species and it can spread like wildfire, soon taking over your entire garden. Little you do will seem to control it and what was once a lovely plant can rapidly become a nightmare. Is there a way to control this rampantly growing plant? Can you enjoy bamboo without it taking over?
You will be pleased to know that you can grow bamboo without having it take over the neighbourhood, but it requires some planning.
Remove the Excess
If you already have bamboo growing everywhere, you’ll want to remove the plants first. You can then replant properly in the areas you wish to have the bamboo growing.
It’s very difficult to eliminate this plant, so the best option is to bring in the experts. Bamboo removers will use an excavator to ensure the rhizomes are removed and the plant can no longer spread. This is the only good way to completely remove them.
Plant Within a Barrier
Ideally, you will plant your bamboo in a container. It will grow well in a pot, but without gaining the same sort of height as when planted in the ground. The pot will prevent it from spreading at all, however.
Another option is to use a specific plastic rhizome barrier that will run around the area you wish to keep the bamboo in. This barrier reaches over two feet below the ground and will help keep the bamboo contained.
It’s also possible to use a metal or concrete barrier but remember that it must extend below the surface of the ground to prevent spreading.
Cut Off Unwanted Shoots
Any shoots that come up where you don’t want them should be immediately cut back. You can remove the rhizome if possible, or simply continue to cut the shoots back each spring as they appear. This is a tiresome process, but it is the only way to prevent the bamboo from growing crazily once it appears if you don’t get the roots.
Bamboo can take years to eradicate, so be very careful where you plant it and how you prevent it from expanding. If you let it get out of control, you’ll regret it later.
Need help controlling your bamboo? Gaia Environmental has the experience to help you remove it for good. Contact us today to learn more.
