While it is possible to control the propagation of bamboo using fairly simple methods, a bamboo barrier is the most durable and least demanding from a maintenance point of view to contain the most aggressive forms of this plant.
Steps
Step 1. Find the area to contain the bamboo
The larger the surface, the more the bamboo will be able to grow. Experts who focus solely on the vigor and hardiness of these plants suggest a diameter of 9m for large species. However, it is possible to have healthy and majestic bamboos in an area of just 1 square m of land.
Step 2. Remove or schedule to eliminate all rhizomes outside the area that should contain the bamboo plants
It is very difficult to remove those that have now settled, so destroying the rhizomes is probably the best choice.
Step 3. Choose and purchase a rhizome barrier
Bamboo can be very strong and develop sharp-tipped rhizomes. It is also possible that over time the concrete will crack, allowing the plant to leak out. In the long run, the metal of the barriers can deteriorate and constitute a hazard where it rises from the ground. For best results, use a high density polyethylene (HDPE) barrier that is at least 1mm thick. In clayey and compact soils, some people argue that using a 60cm barrier is enough. However, if it is 75 cm, it is safer. In areas where the soil is sandy and soft, a 90 cm barrier may be required.
Step 4. Dig a channel around the rhizome containment area, approximately 5m deeper than the width of the rhizome barrier
Step 5. Compact the bottom of the channel as much as you can
Make sure that the topsoil does not precipitate into the excavated area. It is recommended that the channel be made of hard clay so that it is uninviting should any rhizome extend to this depth.
Step 6. Place the barrier in the channel
Place it wherever you like and try to tilt it opposite the containment area. The barrier, in fact, will act as an obstacle for any rhizome that tries to push itself in its direction, guiding it upwards, rather than making it penetrate the ground. In the latter case, he could find a passage under the fence, even if it is very deep.
Step 7. Close the ends of the barrier
Use steel closure strips that have less than 7.5 cm overlap or overlap the ends by at least 1.20 m, sealing the overlapping ends with double-sided tape. Bamboo is likely to pass through very small openings, so be sure to seal them well.
Step 8. Start filling in the areas around the barrier
Keep the barrier tilted outward. Compact the soil in the lower half as much as you can. Leave the top half softer.
Step 9. The installation is complete
Bamboo should not extend underground, as over time this system will direct the rhizomes upwards beyond 5cm of the barrier section that protrudes from the ground. However, you can easily spot and cut them after a quick inspection once or twice a year.
Advice
- Be aware that bamboo can become more aggressive if planted in poor soil. In fact, the latter, instead of weakening the growth of the plant, pushes it to direct all its energies towards the long and deep rhizomes in search of better conditions to survive. Therefore, fertilize the bamboo, repair it with mulch and water it so that it is less aggressive and does not try to spread its rhizomes.
- For best results, separate the top and bottom of the soil when digging the channel. When you go to refill it, use the bottom for the bottom half of the channel and the top for the top half respectively. This system will prevent the rhizomes from propagating deeply, because the low nutrient content of the lower soil layers makes the soil less hospitable.
- Add 2 inches of mulch around the barrier. Not only will they be useful for bamboo, but they will also encourage it to keep the rhizomes close to the surface.
Warnings
- Metal barriers pose a hazard due to the sharp edges protruding from the ground. Use a barrier of HDPE (high density polyethylene), because it is more effective and easier to install.
- Even if they contain quite large areas, the barriers impoverish the quality of the environment that houses the bamboo. Since, in addition to the rhizomes, they also block the air and water drainage, it is as if they make the bamboo environment a little more suffocating. In most cases they have a negligible effect on plant health, but they are not a good idea if you intend to grow a high quality specimen.
