Bamboo Hedging Help & Information

Bamboos

Are very desirable garden plants. They can make large clumps that are ideal as focal points or for adding structure to borders. They can look unsightly if left to grow unhindered, and may become invasive. But keeping plants under control and attractive is easy with some simple routine maintenance.The leaves are borne on small branches which encircle the canes. In spring there is considerable yellowing of the leaves followed by some leaf drop. This is normal as new leaves are produced. Some of the old leaves often become papery and brown and stay attached to the plant long after they are finished.

Growing and Planting

You should immerse new plants in water immediately, by first taking them out of the pot. Dig the planting hole so that the rootball sits slightly deeper than the original depth allowing a thin covering of soil over the top of the original surface. Firm well when back filling the planting hole. Being very shallow rooted they appreciated a good thick mulch of bark, compost, manure or leaf mould. Keep well watered for the next 3 - 6 months until well established, then during any prolonged dry spells. It is essential to thoroughly wet the soil so that the water penetrates down to the roots never sprinkle. Try to give protection from cold drying winds which can desiccate the leaves.

Pruning bamboos

With a little effort it is easy to keep bamboos looking good and prevent them from becoming a nuisance in the garden. In spring, remove any weak, dead, damaged or spindly canes, cutting them to ground level with secateurs or loppers. At the same time remove any debris at the base of clumps. To show off plants to their best, remove some of the foliage from the bottom of the canes. Either snap the side branches off with a swift downward motion (wearing gloves) or cut them back with secateurs, pruning as close to the main cane as possible to leave a smooth finish.

Feeding Bamboo

This can be done late spring and summer with a general purpose granular fertiliser and re-new the mulch layer.

Likes

Bamboos are fantastic shrubs that can be used in a whole range of different ways to create stunning results in your garden. They are fast growing and certain varieties can reach up to five metres in height, meaning these woody perennial evergreens can be ideal if you’re looking to create an attractive year-round privacy screen. With their distinctive, exotic look, these plants will give you that jungle feel in your garden. They are also hardy and easy to care for.

Dislikes

Bamboos do not like being left to dry out they always need to be in moist or damp conditions to help them thrive at their best. Bamboos are usually trouble-free, but may occasionally suffer from rust or root rots. In some years, bamboo aphids may become a problem.