Bamboozled: How to happily grow bamboo

A little bit about bamboo

These hardy giant grasses grow thick and fast, making them one of the most popular privacy-creating plants around. Whether you want to add a lush look to your garden, create a wind break, sound barrier, hedge or create a tropical feel, ever-versatile bamboo is a no-brainer, and so is caring for bamboo. Bamboo is (almost) care free, especially if you choose the non-invasive, clumping variety.

Botanical name: Bambusa

While some varieties can become invasive and some, like the Dendrocalamus giganteus which can soar to 35 metres high, there are many more varieties that are perfect for the average Australian garden. We've listed a range of non-invasive, clumping varieties below.

Bamboo care tips

Ideal spot: Read the plant label as the ideal spot will depend on the variety. Some like a sheltered but sunny position, while others thrive in full sun. Most will grow happily in a large pot, provided there's plenty of room to grow and good drainage. Water crystals can also help retain moisture in the soil in a pot.

How to prepare soil for planting bamboo

Bamboo will grow in most soils but prefers deep, fertile, loamy, slightly acidic, well-draining and moist soil. While this is the ideal soil, as long as yours ticks a few of these boxes, your bamboo will be happy. When digging the hole, make sure it’s twice as wide as the root ball on your plant.

Feed

When new growth appears, at the beginning of spring, mid-summer and at the end of summer, feed with quality organic fertiliser like Dynamic Lifter. Adding a layer of mulch will also keep it growing strong.

Prune

Bamboo doesn’t need much pruning, unless you want to keep it in shape. They do shed a small amount of leaves, but if possible, don't throw them away. The leaves help keep the roots protected and moist. They will also return essential nutrients to the soil as they decompose, which will encourage growth.

Protect

Mites can be a pest and can become a big problem if left to their own devices. They appear as small white webs on the leaves. If you find mites on your bamboo, separate the affected parts of the plant from the unaffected parts (as best you can) and wash the affected area with a high-powered hose.

Watering

The right amount of water will help your plant grow faster. For the first two weeks after planting, water your bamboo until it’s saturated, every day in the late afternoon. After this period, your plant should be happy with a good watering three times a week in summer and once a week in winter. Keep well watered during hot weather and when new growth appears.

Our favourite non-invasive clumping bamboo varieties

Fargesia Fortune New culms (stems) emerge purple with a powder coating. This variety is the hardiest of all bamboos and is tolerant of extreme temperatures. Height: grows up to 4 metres Pot sizes available: You'll find 200mm and 300mm pots available instore.
Fargesia Luscious A refined, elegant, narrow and upright growing habit supports a dense cluster of light-green leaves. Culms (stems) turn red in the sun. Height: grows up to 3.5 metres Pot sizes available: You'll find 200mm pots available instore.
Himalayan weeping This shade-loving bamboo has slender cascading culms (stems) covered with thick sprays of fine, bright-green leaves. Height: grows up to 3 metres Pot size available: You'll find 200mm pots available instore.