Bamboo is a popular plant that is loved for its beauty, versatility, and fast growth. It can be grown in outdoor planters, making it perfect for people with small gardens or patios. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to grow and care for bamboo for people living in average British households.
Choosing the right bamboo
Bamboo comes in different species, each with its unique qualities. Before planting, it’s important to choose the right species for your specific needs. If you live in the UK, you should look for a variety that can survive the cold British climate.
Clumping bamboo is the most popular choice for outdoor planters. It is non-invasive, which means that it doesn't spread aggressively like running bamboo does.
There are several species of bamboo that can grow well in the UK, including:
- Phyllostachys aurea
- Phyllostachys bambusoides
- Phyllostachys nigra
Planting bamboo in outdoor planters
When planting bamboo in outdoor planters, choose a planter that is large enough to accommodate the plant's root system. The planter should also be sturdy enough to support the weight of bamboo.
Here are the steps to planting bamboo in outdoor planters:
- Fill the outdoor planter with a soil mix that is specifically designed for outdoor use.
- Soak the bamboo root ball in water for 20-30 minutes before planting.
- Place the bamboo plant in the planter, ensuring that it's at the same level as the surrounding soil.
- Backfill the planter with soil, pressing gently to eliminate air pockets.
- Water the plant thoroughly.
Watering and fertilizing bamboo
Bamboo needs regular watering to thrive, especially during dry or hot weather. The frequency of watering depends on weather conditions, but bamboo usually needs to be watered at least twice a week during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Bamboo requires fertilization to grow well. Apply a slow-release fertilizer that is specifically formulated for bamboo. You can apply fertilizer once every six months. However, avoid over-fertilizing your bamboo plants, as this can lead to burnt leaves and poor growth.
Pruning bamboo
Pruning your bamboo regularly is important for maintaining its shape and removing dead or damaged leaves. Pruning also promotes new growth. You should prune your bamboo in late spring or early summer.
Here’s how to prune bamboo:
- Remove unwanted stems with a sharp pruning saw or shears, making sure to cut at an angle.
- Remove dead or damaged leaves.
- Thin out weak or thin stems.
Controlling bamboo growth
Running bamboo species are known to be invasive and can easily spread from outdoor planters to other areas of your garden. To prevent them from taking over, you can install a root barrier made of plastic or metal around the planter.
What you need to remember when growing bamboo
Growing and caring for bamboo requires attention and commitment. Here are some things to remember:
- Choose the right bamboo species for the UK climate.
- Use a large, sturdy planter that can accommodate the plant's root system.
- Water your bamboo plants regularly but avoid waterlogging the soil.
- Fertilize your bamboo with a slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for bamboo.
- Prune your bamboo regularly to maintain its shape, remove dead or damaged leaves, and promote new growth.
- Use a root barrier to control the spread of invasive running bamboo species.
In conclusion, growing and caring for bamboo in outdoor planters is easy with the right conditions and proper maintenance. Once you've selected the right species, chosen suitable planters, and provided a proper growing environment, your bamboo plant will thrive and add beauty to your outdoor space.
