Plant Care 101: Bamboo Tree
Last updated: Aug 08 2019
Key takeaways
Bamboo grows best in full to partial sun with about 4–8 hours of sunlight each day and adapts well across a wide range of landscapes.
Plant Bamboo in a hole about three times wider than the root ball, then mulch around the base to conserve moisture while keeping mulch away from the canes.
Water Bamboo two to three times per week during establishment, checking the soil a few inches below the surface before watering again.
Function merges with beauty, making the Bamboo Tree way more versatile and adaptable than many think. The Bamboo isn't just for reserved for design...it's perfect for privacy, fast growth and durable, long-lasting results.
And don't be daunted by its more exotic looks. We're here to help you get something new for your garden and keep it growing strong!
How to Plant theBambooTree
First, select the perfect area. It may depend on your variety (Black or Golden, for example), but in general, Bamboo Trees love sun.
Full to partial sun will be your target, and by that,we mean about 4 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. TheBamboo also acclimates best in growing zones6 through 10 or 7 through 10,meaning it's cold hardydown toabout 10degrees. So, you're not too limited when it comes to growing Bamboo since itcan grow in western, northern and southern regions.
Once you've got your location and are ready to plant, dig ahole that's aboutthree times the width of your tree's root ball. From there,the processcouldn't be simpler. Place yourBamboo Tree, backfill the soil, and then water the surrounding soil to settle your tree's roots. Finally, mulch to conserve moisture and keep away weeds. When you mulch, avoid touching theBamboo's trunk and only apply the mulch to the soil.
Ongoing Care
The most important part of long-term care is watering,but theBamboo is relativelycarefree, soit doesn't take much. We recommend watering your tree abouttwice or three times weekly, but if you're not sure when to water, just check the soil.
Use your index finger and feel the soil about 3 or 4 inches down - if the soil is dry here, it's time to water. A slow trickle with a garden hose to water, until the soil is moist, is best. Also, if you're going through a period of drought, watering a bit more each week may be necessary. When it's colder outside or rainy, you may only need to water once everytwo or three weeks.
Once your Bamboo is established, or aroundthe third year of growth, fertilize with anitrogenblend. Apply this blend once in the spring,and follow with a well-balanced blend in the summer. Follow the label instructions for best results.
How to Prune aBamboo Tree
Don't beintimidated when it comes to pruning your Bamboo. All you need to do isprune once a year, in late summer or early fall, to prevent too much spreading. Also, we suggest removing anydead or weak canes to bolster new growth.
Pro Tip:Sterilize your shearing tools with rubbing alcoholso that your cuts are clean and your Bamboo stays healthy.
Caring for theBamboo Tree
Here are a few more tips to keep your Bamboo Tree growing well:
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When pruning your Bamboo for shaping, cut above a node to reduce height.
- You can grow Bamboo indoors! Simply select a larger container with drainage holes and plant in organic soil.Misting your Bamboo will keep it healthy, since the Bamboo prefers humidity.
With our care tips, you'll have hassle-free, elegantly-growing Bamboo to elevate your homescape.Learnmore about this iconic staple here!
Written by
Blair Brown
Blair is the Content Marketing Manager at Trees.com, and though she's not your traditional gardener, the planting world is definitely growing on her (pun intended!). She's enjoyed digging into plant care and maintenance and growing her plant collection, especially with exotic indoor varieties.
