After fifteen years of growing bamboo commercially, I thought I knew what I was dealing with. Then I watched Phyllostachys aureosulcata push clean through a cheap 20-mil barrier I’d installed three years earlier — surfacing about four feet outside the…
Running bamboo spreads — that’s not a flaw, it’s just what it does. The real question is which species you’re dealing with, because not all runners behave the same way, and knowing the difference can save you years of frustration (and a few arguments with your neighbors). After growing bamboo for over a decade and … Read more
Understanding bamboo laws can feel overwhelming. Each state approaches this fast-growing plant differently. Some welcome it, while others restrict specific varieties. Why States Regulate Bamboo Bamboo grows incredibly fast, sometimes reaching three feet per day during peak season. Source This rapid growth makes it attractive for privacy screens and landscaping. However, it also raises concerns about invasiveness. … Read more
I learned the hard way that state-level bamboo laws are only half the story. When I planted a 12-foot stand of Phyllostachys aurea on my property in suburban Colorado, I checked Colorado’s relatively permissive state regulations and thought I was clear. Three months later, my HOA sent a formal notice demanding removal within 90 days. … Read more
Bamboo adds exotic beauty to any garden. However, its aggressive growth often turns into a landscaping nightmare. Running bamboo species spread rapidly through underground stems called rhizomes. Consequently, these rhizomes invade lawns, crack patios, and annoy neighbors. You must contain them effectively. A high-density polyethylene (HDPE) root barrier offers the best defense. This guide explains … Read more