Fall 2002 Newsletter

Attention all responsible Bamboo Owners,

Autumn has arrived and it is time once again for annual, bamboo rhizome maintenance. Mid October through November is the ideal time for root pruning because the majority of this year's rhizome growth has already occurred. By taking control of your grove, you will rest easy knowing there won't be stray shoots coming up the following spring.

Rhizome pruning is usually a simple undertaking requiring very few tools; although the size, condition and maintenance history of the grove will affect the scope of the project. Using proper technique, annual containment through root pruning is well within the grasp of the average gardener. A variety of tools are suitable for rhizome maintenance. These range from run of the mill garden shovels to specialized tree spades. We have found that a tool selection somewhere in the middle is adequate for most needs.

For versatility, usefulness and value, the maddock is our tool of choice. This tool combines an axe head and a small prying blade in one tool. Bamboo Gardens highly recommends this tool because of this 2 in 1 (cut & pry) functionality. Bamboo Gardens tool tip: sharpen tools before each use.

Achieving proper rhizome pruning technique is a simple endeavor. Determining the perimeter to be pruned ensures uniformity of appearance and is usually done in a straight line or an even arc around the grove. When "slicing" along the perimeter, focus the force of the tool in a deliberate manner (i.e. eye on the target, powerful stroke, and firm grasp). To be safe, slice down to a depth of 12". This is usually adequate since the majority of rhizomes tend to be shallow in our Northwest soil. However, in sandy soils or a contained area the rhizomes may travel somewhat deeper.

As you prune around your grove, it is important to remove rhizomes that have been severed from the parent plant so as not to lose track of their location. Do your best to get all of them, but don't be discouraged if a few are missed. Due to a high probability of shooting, these stragglers will make themselves readily apparent in the spring as mini- shoots. DO NOT MOW NEW SHOOTS! The rhizomes will only continue to grow unseen. Dig out the attached rhizome or spot treat leaves with grass round-up after the first leaves appear.

For more information look under "Bamboo Plants - Plant Care" on this web site.

Remember, Bamboo is a LOW maintenance, NOT no maintenance plant. Root prune every year and you will be successful controlling your "running" bamboo.

No time? Love your bamboo but neglected it? We have staff who can get your bamboo into control and keep it that way. Call 425-868-5166 ext 102 to schedule a $40 consult in the greater Seattle area. This consult is to give an estimate of the cost to do the work or to give you guidance on doing the pruning yourself. If you hire us to do the job for you, your consult fee is deducted.

Happy gardening,
Bamboo Gardens Staff