Giant bamboo
growing in Ecuador
Giant bamboo is a woody perennial evergreen grass from the botanical family Poaceae and the subgenera Bambusoideae. Giant bamboos, of which there are many varietals, grow by extending rhizomes that travel under the surface of the soil to colonize an area for growth. Giant bamboo refers to those varietals that grow culms or canes that are between 3 and 7 inches or so in diameter and are often referred to a timber bamboo. As with most bamboos, their growth rate and size is often defined by the quality of surrounding soil and water applications that they receive.
Select a Planting Location
Giant bamboos generally grow to the proportions of a large tree, reaching 30 feet in height and spreading aggressively by their runners. Select a planting location away from structures and other plants for which the competition for soil nutrients and moisture may be problematic. Giant bamboo will thrive in both full sun and light shade exposures. Under favorable environmental conditions, giant bamboos can establish a forest-like stand in eight to 10 years. If you want to contain the plant to a smaller zone, use trenching, caging or other barrier methods to control the spread of the root runners.
Prepare Planting Soil
Giant bamboos prefer consistently moist, rich humus that drains well. While it thrives in constantly moist soil, soaking wet soil that never completely drains will inhibit healthy growth and likely kill the bamboo over time. Soils that have heavy sand or red clay contents also tend to be good because of their moisture-holding properties. A heavy mulch of wood chips encourages rhizome growth and maintains even moisture levels. Provide a slightly acidic soil pH level between 5.5 and 6.5. Before planting, amend the soil with sphagnum peat moss or gypsum to elevate the acidity level, if needed, and with compost, leaf mold or well aged manure to bump up the nutrient level.
Planting Process
Dig a hole that will accommodate the root ball of your bamboo without crowding or crushing any of the roots. Loosen the surrounding soil to encourage easy root penetration. Set the bamboo into the hole and splay the roots out as they naturally lie. Back fill the loosened soil and around the roots, firming down gently as you go to stabilize the plant. Water in the bamboo well after planting and every three to five days for the first month to support root establishment. Do not apply fertilizer to the soil at planting time, as it may stress the bamboo plants and roots. Wait until the bamboo gets established in the new soil for at least a month or two before applying a high-quality grass or lawn fertilizer.
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