Bamboo is invasive and will take over my yard

Not true. Some varieties can spread very quickly.  At TallGrasses we specialize in propogating and planting varieties that are suited to the northwest climate and spread slower than some tropical varieties. All Bamboos are a "grass" and will try to expand. They are easily contained and provide a beautiful and exotic touch to any landscape. If none of these appeal to you contact us. Let us install a beautiful specimen, in a pot or planter box.

How do I know which Bamboo will do best in my landscape?

There are over 1000 species of Bamboo. Some varieties can grow to 80 feet tall, some are only a "ground cover" of 12 inches tall. We have varieties that will do well in the shade or full sun. In general the larger the variety the more sun it will require to thrive. Let us help you site this exotic plant for maximum effect in your landscape. We can help you create a living fence or a beautiful feature.

What are the signs my bamboo is diseased?

In general, Bamboo is very disease resistant, and evergreen. In the northwest the most obvious pest is "Leaf Mites". This infestation is not fatal and easily treated. The characteristics are white spots or a white stripe down the spine of the leaves. If you look underneath the leave you will see a fine silk which is the "web" of the evil mite. You will need to treat the plant with a pesticide that has "systemic" qualities. The product is available at any quality garden center. It is important to note that you will need to apply the treatment while the pests are active ( Spring and summer) , then again no less than 7 to10 days afterward to ensure you have terminated the children of the evil mite… If the infestation is severe you may want to have a commercial spraying service make regular applications for you.

What type of soil conditions does Bamboo prefer?

Bamboo is hardy and will grow well in most types of soil, but they prefer a loamy, slightly acid soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Bamboo does well in sandy soil and prefers not to have "wet feet" if you have a heavy and poor draining, clay soil then mix compost into the top foot. Grass clippings or bark chips provide a good mulch and needed nutrients. Applying a light treatment of lawn fertilizer in the fall will encourage new spring growth.

How do I maintain and enhance the appearance of my bamboo?

Bamboo like other grasses requires some edging and maintenance, very similar to your lawn. Bamboo "stalks" or culms live to about 10 or 15 years. Each year you should remove culms that are older and trim any dead branches off. This will encourage new growth, especially if you have bamboo in a container. You can prune bamboo and not be concerned with injuring the plant. We can help you with general maintenance tips, just give us a call, or an email to brock@tallgrasses.com

How do I safely contain my bamboo?

Proper sighting, selection and installation of bamboo will ensure a pleasing display and worry free feature to any landscape. Root barrier is available. HDPE bamboo barrier, (high-density polyethylene) is very effective and expensive. A barrier of 24" to 30" is recommended. A trench of 8" to 10" may be dug around the bamboo. Any rhizomes or shoots that "jump" the barrier can quickly be cut off . Concrete or metal can be used. Metal will deteriorate over time and will not provide lasting protection. We have had a stand of Golden Bamboo next to our driveway without any containment features for 12 years and have had no problems with it breaking into the asphalt. As mentioned earlier you may want to consider installing bamboo in some sort of container or planter if these options do not appeal to you.