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Bamboo is one of the rattlest and easily grows plant, that is why many garden lovers prefer to plant this plant to add thoughts of exotic. Bamboo can be grown in soil quite easily but knowing all about the conditions helps in the developing healthier and more vibrant plants. In this article I will outline everything related to the proper selection of the right type and then the tips and tricks on how to properly take care of bamboo that is planted in the soil. Choosing the appropriate kind of bamboo There are two main types of bamboo: clumping and running. General knowledge about these types is key in cultivating bamboo especially since their characteristics are so distinct from one another. 1. Clumping Bamboo Clumping bamboo has a clumped spatial growth habit, growing only in the outward radial direction from the inside of a clump. Due to the way it grows, it is well suited for the small gardens or the container planting since it has a habit of not spreading rampantly. Non-clumping bamboo types are also relatively easy to manage and need little if any attention making them well suited for aesthetic garding or to be grown as an ornament within a restricted space. 2. Running Bamboo While some species are genuine ‘clumpers’, others such as running bamboo, reproduce by rhizomes and grow very rampantly. These rhizomes may spread far from the principal plant; that is why spread occurs rather quickly. Running bamboo is more suitable to be used in an area where natural screen or hedge is desired because this type of bamboo grows relatively fast and is densely foliaged. However, if not well contained, it is an invasive plant that may dominate garden areas and extend to other regions of the adjoining territory. Preparing the Soil Bamboo grows best in well drained nutrient rich soils that have a pH ranging from 6-7.5 pH level. First you need to prepare the soil, you need to plough the ground deep enough, about 1ft deep and the soil should be soft enough to let the roots of bamboo go through. Addages of compost or well decomposed manure to the soil will also improve the fertility and structure of the soil. Bamboo base requires good soil preparation as the fundamental step towards establishment of the shoots. Planting Bamboo Bamboo is best planted at the early spring or during summer when the soil is still warm. Make a hole twice as wide as the root mass of the plant but not deeper than half the height of the plant. To plant, put the bamboo into this hole such that the top of the root ball will be level with the ground. Put back the displaced soil mixture gently over the roots. First, water is the best after planting because it will help to set the soil around the roots well. Watering Requirements Bamboo must be watered frequently, with special attention having to be given especially during the first year when it is trying to put down roots. Aqua profunda semel aut bis in semana secundum climata et solum. Perhaps, during summer time, frequency of watering may be higher. However, do not water log because bamboo roots can rapidly begin to rot if the area remains water logged. Fertilizing Bamboo Another advantage of bamboo is feeding; this is done in order to stimulate vigorous growth of the plant. A balanced fertilizer or one that is particularly rich in nitrogen is ideal if you want the plant to grow lots of leaves like lawn fertilizer. The first application should be in early spring when new shoots are first emerging, the second in mid summer. Other such organic inputs which can be used include compost tea or fish emulsion, in which essential nutrients can be found and, at the same time, helps in maintaining the condition of the soil. Mulching Another technique that need to be used around the base of the bamboo is the use of mulch because it avoids loss of moisture and controls the growth of weed while moderating the temperature of the region. Ecological mulches, for example, the use of bark or straw, disintegrate slowly and return lost nutrients to the soil. Do not pile the mulch over the bamboo canes because this will cause the bamboo to rot for convenience. Pruning and Maintenance Trimming of bamboo is required in order to control its growth and its orientation. Dead or weak canes that may be laying at the ground should be fretted at least once a year. Air and light can reach the foliage inside the clump better if the plant is thinned, which will lead to improved health. In the case of running bamboo, you need to ensure that rhizomes layers are properly trimmed from time to time in order to check their over growth throughout the garden area. Controlling Bamboo Spread If not well controlled, then running bamboo grows aggressively all over the place. One control method is the use of a barrier, where an ideal root barrier, high-density polyethylene, can curtail the spread of rhizomes. The barrier should be 24 inches deep and leaning forward at the top for the ability to grow upward and be more easily pruned. On the other hand, constant surveillance and removal of new shoots, will help contain running bamboo. Common Pests and Diseases Bamboo has low susceptibility to pests but is vulnerable to mite attack, aphids, and fungal disease. Spider mites lead to yellowing of the foliage while aphids give rise sooty mold formation. These pests can be controlled by physical examination and insecticidal soaps, or horticultural oils. Root rot is one of the main fungal diseases can be combatted by good air circulation and not watering overhead. Conclusion: It is very rewarding to grow bamboo in soil because it builds a green, tropical environment to your garden. Proper selection of the bamboo variety and appropriate preparation and treatment of the soil as well as planting and care procedures will help you achieve a boost and keep your bamboo plant a source of joy for quite a number of years. Want to take your garden green to the next level? So start putting your bamboo today and check out our site for more gardening information and advice!

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