Imagine you have planted a bamboo. But after a short time it seems to be expanding and taking over an ever larger area. The reason for this is its root system. Let's take a closer look
How deep does bamboo root?
All bamboo species are so-calledshallow rootersFargesia, the common and popular garden bamboo, has rootsmaximum 50 cm deepTherefore, when planting, care should be taken not to plant the bamboo too deeply in the soil. Anyone who does so risks the roots rotting due to lack of oxygen - the end for a bamboo.
Why can the root system cause problems?
Some types of bamboo develop fewer roots and more rhizomes. These are shoots that are located beneath the surface of the earth and with which a bamboo can multiply within a short period of time. Here and there the rhizomes extend new bamboo stalks through the surface of the earth. This can lead to problems under certain circumstances, because not everyone wants a bamboo stand that continues to grow anduncontrolled growth Surrounding plants and buildings could be damaged as a result.
Which types of bamboo tend to form runners and which ones don't?
While theFargesias do nottend to form runners, but rather grow in clumps, it is thePhyllostachysthat prefer to grow runners. Also included isPseudosasa japonica. When buying bamboo, be sure to pay attention to the exact name or type of bamboo!
What can you do to stop the rhizomes?
Once planted and given the opportunity to root properly, it is time-consuming to get the roots or rhizomes back under control. If you've already seen them wander around the property and they're bothering you, the only way to remove them iswith a little work.
What is the best way to remove the roots?
First, remove the above-ground stalks. Only then is the root area ready to be pierced with a spadeRhizomesLook out for them and cut them with a spade or other toolAny rhizomes must be removed from the soil, otherwise the game starts over again.
Tip
Set rhizome barrier directly when planting
Prevention is better than aftercare. Therefore: Before you finish planting bamboo, you should insert a rhizome barrier (€78.00 on Amazon) into the soil. This can be done, for example, in the form of pond liner, concrete, a fine wire mesh or smaller paving slabs.
