Bamboo

Bamboo Cultivation

Bamboo requires a rich damp soil in a sheltered sunny or partially shaded position with plenty of moisture in the growing season. A very hardy plant, tolerating temperatures down to at least -7°c. This is a good companion species to grow in a woodland because the plants are shallow rooted and do not compete with deep rooted trees. New shoots appear from May onwards and grow quite rapidly. Dead stems can be removed at any time of the year. It is also possible to thin the clumps in spring, leaving only the strongest stems and thus creating an open grove-like effect.

Bamboo will grow in Light sandy soils, medium loamy soils and heavy clay soils and tolerates acid, neutral or alkaline conditions. It will grow in full sun but prefers semi-shade. A moist soil is essential. Keep well watered during hot dry spells.

Some varieties are clump forming and are therefore ideal for pot and tub growing.

Depending on variety height can vary from 1 metre for the dwarf cultivars up to several metres for the more vigorous varieties.