Information on Bamboo Plants

Elegant and exotic – bamboo is a great way to enhance the garden and give it a tropical feel.

Types of Bamboo

There are hundreds of varieties to choose from that originate from countries as far apart as China and Chile. Some are hardy and will grow almost anywhere while others can only tolerate a warm climate.

Bamboos range from the lucky bamboo indoor plant to those that grow as huge plants in the forests of China. The lucky bamboo represents good fortune in Far Eastern cultures and is used in the art of Feng Shui. It is believed that the plant creates positive ‘chi’, or energy in the place where it is located within the home.

Most lucky bamboo is grown in a small amount of water and surrounded by pebbles. It lasts for years and only needs fresh water to care for it. It makes a beautiful ornamental indoor plant with its textured bright green canes. Lucky bamboo doesn’t twist and curl naturally, but is turned towards the light as it grows, forcing it into some stunning shapes.

Use of Bamboo

Because of its dense foliage bamboo is often used to create a privacy screen, a hedge or a windbreak. Most bamboo likes a sunny location, although there are a few varieties that flourish well in shady areas, which can be a great find for gardeners with a shady spot to fill.

Some bamboo shoots can be eaten – they are delicious in a salad or stir fry.

Bamboo is also commercially grown due to its incredible strength. It has many uses including: furniture, garden stakes, screening and flooring. A less well known use of bamboo fibres is for fabrics, clothing underwear and bed linen.

Bamboo Care

When bamboo is first planted it should be given plenty of water and kept moist. A common problem for newly planted bamboo is lack of water as it establishes.

Good drainage is also important. Make sure the plant isn’t standing in pools of water.

Healthy soil will produce a more successful plant. Give bamboo a good helping of compost when it’s first planted.

Like all other plants bamboo may still attract pests and it’s essential to deal with them as soon as they appear, or even better prevent them.

Pruning bamboo can be an interesting and dangerous exercise. The new culms (trunks) should be pruned to keep the shape of the plant. Take care when pruning overhead culms as they can be very sharp and can cause a serious injury on their descent.

Bamboo has different root types and can be very fast growing – be wary if you’ve got a small garden. ‘Clumping’ bamboo is easier to control and less invasive than ‘running’ bamboo, which can easily get out of control.

So if you’re looking for a mysterious and unusual plant try bamboo and bring a taste of the East to your garden.

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