How Do You Plant Bamboo and Keep It Contained? Tips for a Controlled Garden Environment
If you’ve been thinking about adding bamboo to your garden, you’re in for a treat! Bamboo can bring a unique beauty and a touch of elegance to your outdoor space. However, you might have concerns about keeping it contained so that it doesn’t overrun your yard.
To successfully plant bamboo and keep it contained, use pots or install a barrier around your planting area.
When planting bamboo, it’s important to choose the right type. Clumping bamboo is often the best choice because it doesn’t spread as aggressively as running bamboo. You can enjoy the lush greenery without the worry of it taking over your garden.
By following effective bamboo containment strategies, you can create a thriving and beautiful bamboo landscape that’s easy to maintain.
Getting started with bamboo is simple! Make sure to select a suitable spot that allows for proper growth and has enough space for containers if you’re using them. With the right preparations, you can enjoy the benefits of bamboo while keeping it nicely contained.
Understanding Bamboo Types
When planting bamboo, knowing the differences between its types is essential. Each type has unique traits that affect growth and containment. You’ll especially notice differences in how they spread and their overall management needs.
Characteristics of Running Bamboo
Running bamboo is known for its fast growth and aggressive spreading. This type sends out rhizomes, or underground stems, which can travel several feet from the original plant. The typical species of running bamboo, like Phyllostachys aurea, can create thick patches quickly.
Due to its rapid expansion, running bamboo requires careful management. Installing a barrier is advisable to prevent it from overtaking your garden. These barriers should be buried deep to contain the roots effectively. While it can provide excellent privacy, the high growth rate may lead to maintenance challenges if not kept in check.
Benefits of Clumping Bamboo
Clumping bamboo is more contained than its running counterpart. This type, including varieties like Fargesia murielae, grows in tight clusters rather than spreading widely. The culms, or shoots, emerge closely together, making it easier to manage.
One significant advantage is its low maintenance. Clumping bamboo generally doesn’t require as much attention since it does not invade surrounding areas. This makes it a better choice for smaller gardens or urban settings. Its growth habit also adds a stylish touch to your landscape while providing privacy without aggressive spread.
Creating a Bamboo Barrier

To successfully contain bamboo, you need to establish a barrier. A well-constructed barrier prevents bamboo roots and rhizomes from spreading uncontrollably. Let’s discuss how to install a rhizome barrier and choose the right materials for your needs.
Installing a Rhizome Barrier
Start by digging a trench around the area where you want to keep the bamboo. The trench should be about 28-36 inches deep, depending on the height of your barrier. A deeper trench helps ensure that rhizomes do not escape beneath the barrier.
Next, place the rhizome barrier material into the trench. It’s crucial to angle the barrier outward at about a 15-degree angle. This way, any bamboo rhizomes that come into contact with the barrier will grow upwards instead of downwards.
Afterward, make sure that the barrier is vertical and secure in place. Once set, fill the trench back up, packing the soil tightly at the bottom but leaving the top loose for planting.
Choosing the Right Material
When selecting your bamboo barrier, consider using high-density polyethylene (HDPE). This material is durable and ideal for preventing bamboo roots from penetrating through.
A rhizome barrier should be at least 30-36 inches tall to provide proper containment. Various types of barriers are available, including plastic and metal options.
Plastic barriers are lightweight and easy to install. Metal barriers, though sturdier, can be a bit more challenging to work with. Ensure whatever material you select is resistant to decay and can last for years underground. Proper selection aids in effectively controlling your bamboo.
Planting Bamboo Successfully

Planting bamboo requires careful planning and the right techniques. By following specific methods, you can ensure that your bamboo thrives and stays contained.
Preparation and Planting Techniques
Start by selecting the right location for your bamboo. It should receive plenty of sunlight, ideally 6 to 8 hours a day. Choose a well-drained area, as bamboo doesn’t like to sit in water.
Next, dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. This gives the roots room to spread. Backfill the hole with a mix of native soil and compost for better nutrients.
When planting, set the bamboo so the top of the root ball is level with the ground. Water it well right after planting to eliminate air pockets and help it settle.
Bamboo in Containers
Growing bamboo in containers is perfect if you want to keep it contained. Choose a pot that is at least 18-24 inches deep and wide. This allows the bamboo roots room to grow without becoming root-bound.
Consider using a heavy-duty plastic or ceramic pot to prevent breakage. Ensure your container has drainage holes to avoid waterlogging.
When planting, fill the pot with a mix of potting soil and compost. This ensures good drainage and nutrients. Water regularly, especially during hot weather, to keep your bamboo healthy.
Maintaining Bamboo Health
To keep your bamboo healthy, regular maintenance is essential. Water your bamboo deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth. Check the top inch of soil to see if it needs water.
Use a balanced fertilizer in mid-spring to give your bamboo a nutrient boost. Organic options are best as they enrich the soil over time.
Also, mulch around the base of your bamboo to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. This will help the bamboo sustain itself, allowing you to enjoy its beauty with minimal effort.
Managing Bamboo Growth

Controlling the growth of bamboo is crucial to keep it from spreading too much. Using physical barriers and alternative methods can help you contain it effectively. Here are some practical strategies for managing your bamboo.
Physical Barriers and Trimming
To contain your bamboo, start by installing physical barriers. A bamboo shield can help prevent the roots from spreading uncontrollably.
You can bury rhizome barriers that are at least 2 feet deep. Be sure to keep the barrier above the soil level too. This helps keep invasive bamboo from becoming a problem.
Regular trimming is another key step. Check your bamboo grove at least twice a year. By cutting back any excess growth, you help maintain its shape for a privacy screen. This not only keeps it tidy but also encourages healthy growth.
Alternative Containment Methods
If you prefer a less invasive approach, you can use pots or large containers. Planting bamboo in pots with drain holes allows you to manage its size effectively. This option is great if you’re limited on space.
Another effective method is using herbicides. Choose ones that target bamboo specifically and apply them carefully. Always follow the instructions on the label to ensure safety for your other plants. You can also apply mulch to suppress growth, keeping your garden looking neat and controlled.