For Planting in the ground:

It is best to dig the hole about twice the size of the container that the plant is coming out of. However, if the bamboo plant is advanced in a large container this may be a little excessive.

As long as there is plenty of room around the root ball to create a fertile environment for the roots to grow into, this should be enough.

If your soil contains a lot of clay or sand, or is depleted of nutrients, then adding some premium garden soil to the area will be beneficial. 

This will help to establish positive root growth in the bamboo plant’s new environment. 

Alternatively, you can soften the ground by filling the holes with water and allowing it to drain to soften the ground around the planting area. Then, place the plant in and backfill the hole with soil. 

The addition of a soluble fertiliser as well as some beneficial micro biotics at this time would also be helpful.

Water the plant thoroughly after it is first planted. This will remove any air pockets and soften the soil around the roots. Then water the plant, at the root ball, every couple of days or as required, ensuring the soil is moist rather than wet, until it establishes.

Mulch is essential

Mulch is the key to the success of healthy thriving bamboo plants. Bamboo plants are shallow rooted so the mulch assists in protecting the soil from drying out, and reduces the amount of watering required. 

A good, thick 100mm layer of organic mulch is preferred. Water the mulch thoroughly as well, once applied. 

Feed your bamboo

All of our plants will have active fertiliser in their containers, which will assist with nutrient supply as the plant is settling into its new environment. 

It doesn’t hurt to apply some more once the plant has established though, to give it some growth support. 

You can use the same product that you used when planting, or another type of slow or controlled release product available.

Like turf, bamboo loves nitrogen, so choose a product that is high in this element. Spring and summer is always when they will require the most feeding.

 

For planting in pots:

Growing clumping bamboo in a pot or container is possible so long as you choose the correct species and provide all the special care these plants require. While they are easier to keep looking good if grown in part shade, it is also possible to have healthy looking potted bamboo plants growing out in the full sun. 

The best bamboo plants for pot growing are the varieties that grow no taller than eight metres (8m) in height.

Pot choices

When it comes to growing bamboo in a pot, it’s important to consider the height the plant will grow to. Bamboo grows quite tall so it becomes susceptible to being blown over by winds when grown in a pot. 

Growing bamboo in a solid, low profile pot with a squared off base will help with the required stability. If the pot is deep enough, the addition of rocks or gravel in the bottom will add weight, which will help with keeping it upright.

Like most plants grown in pots, bamboo will be affected by high temperatures and strong winds. As the bamboo doesn’t have access to ground water they will dry out quicker under these conditions. Avoid using thin walled, plastic pots. 

Instead, use a thick walled, concrete, timber or clay pot that will protect the soil and roots, reducing the overall stress on the bamboo plant.

Potting Soil

Ensure that a quality, well draining potting soil is chosen. Premium soils developed specifically for growing plants in pots will include ingredients that will assist with water retention and sustain those plant nutrients.

Nutrients

Bamboo is most hungry during the hot months, when they are busy producing new stems. As they won’t have access to the nutrients in the ground, it is important to feed the bamboo during this period.

Bamboo is a grass, so it loves nitrogen. Choose a product that is high in this element (10 per cent or more). To reduce the amount of time spent feeding the bamboo, the choice of a controlled release fertiliser for growing bamboo in pots is advisable. Choose one that has at least 6 to 8 months longevity. 

Apply as per the directions at the start of spring each year.

Watering

Bamboo looks the best if the soil in the pot remains moist. Regular watering is essential to maintain a healthy plant, especially during the hotter months. 

During this time the plant may require a heavy watering every day. The addition of a thick layer of mulch will assist greatly in preventing the soil from drying out. During the colder months, bamboo goes into a relative dormancy, which means that they won’t require anywhere near as much water.

Maintenance of potted bamboo

To keep the bamboo plants looking fresh in their pots, the older stems can be cut away at the base and removed.