Bamboo is the fastest growing plant on earth some varieties reaching 80 feet tall in a weeks time. Other varieties will stay under two feet tall and provide and attractive low maintenance "lawn". Bamboo grows using underground roots or "rhizomes" and most species will only grow in the top 6 to 12 inches of soil.. Growth of this fascinating grass is usually limited to twice a year. Early spring most species will have a moderate growth period, then they will store up their energy and have a robust period of growth in the fall. One of the more interesting characteristics of bamboo is that as a new "culm" or stalk pushes up from the ground and the diameter of the stalk or "culm" will never increase in size over its life, unlike most trees.

Bamboo in containers:

The most misunderstood myth anyone has about adding Bamboo to your landscape is the notion that the plant will "take over your yard." Sadly this is the reason many people do not incorporate this beautiful plant into their landscape. While certain varieties of bamboo can be invasive, most are easily contained and make beautiful additions to your home, office entry, or apartment deck. Potted bamboo makes a very attractive presentation and can be used in cramped spaces. We have Bamboos that come in all sizes and will last for years in the same pot with a minimum of maintenance. Every couple of years it will be necessary to remove the plants from their pot and "separate" them and repot them.

Since Bamboo grows well in shallow soil conditions, it is advisable to plant them in a low wide pot. Be sure not to get a pot with a narrow opening, as it will be difficult to remove the plant once the rhizomes have had a chance to expand and fill the pot up.