Step-by-Step Growing Guide
Only plant clumping bamboo (Fargesia, Bambusa, Thamnocalamus genera) in home gardens — running bamboo (Phyllostachys) will spread into neighboring properties and is nearly impossible to eradicate once established. Clumping bamboo grows in a slowly expanding non-invasive clump. Plant in fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5–7.0. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and amend with compost. Space clumping varieties 4–6 feet apart for a hedge, or use a single specimen as a focal point. Water deeply and frequently for the first 2 years during establishment — bamboo is not drought-tolerant when young. Once established, most clumping types are surprisingly drought-resilient. Apply a high-nitrogen fertilizer (lawn fertilizer works) in spring and midsummer — bamboo is a heavy nitrogen feeder. Mulch heavily, 3–4 inches, to retain moisture and moderate soil temperature. Clumping bamboo expands slowly — expect 6–12 inches of clump expansion per year.