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Bamboo turning brown after planting

#1 · 5th June 2023, 2:52 pm

Hi. i planted my bamboo about 6 months ago but since then the last few weeks they have turned brown as if not enough water. replanted them with new compost as previous was heavy soil but seems to have made worse.any advice??

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#2 · 5th June 2023, 9:39 pm

Quote from Lee Garden Ninja on 5th June 2023, 9:39 pm
Hi @louforrest2023

Thanks for your question about your bamboo that's recently turned brown after planting.

Firstly don't panic if your new bamboo turns brown after planting. Usually, this is the plant going into shock as it is transplanted. The bamboo has lived in a container, where its root system was contained and watered, but this has suddenly changed as its planted into the ground and transplanted.

The fix is to ensure the bamboo is thoroughly watered, especially in the current heat wave or if planting in hot weather. Not just a sprinkle but a good soak. Another tip when planting bamboo is to soak the container of bamboo in a bucket for an hour before.

Moving it into compost whilst sounding like a good idea on paper has probably made this worse as its disturbed the rots once again! Bamboos actually prefer a heavier soil to a compost, but now you've moved it again leave it in the compost but increase the watering frequency to help it recover.

Tips for planting Bamboo:

Planting bamboo requires careful consideration of the type of bamboo, soil conditions, and containment measures. Here are some general guidelines to follow when planting bamboo:

Choose the right bamboo: There are two main types of bamboo: running bamboo and clumping bamboo. Running bamboo can be invasive and spread rapidly, while clumping bamboo grows in tight clumps and spreads slowly. Select a bamboo variety that suits your needs and the available space. Always check the type of bamboo based on your garden size.

Select a suitable location: Bamboo prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Ensure the planting site has enough space for the bamboo to grow without interfering with other plants or structures. Consider the mature height and spread of the bamboo variety you choose. Don't try and squash bamboo into small borders as they will always break free even if clump forming!

Prepare the soil: Bamboo grows best in fertile, loamy soil. Before planting, remove any weeds, rocks, or debris from the planting area. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.

https://youtu.be/SL8qCL_fGeM

Contain the bamboo: Bamboo has a tendency to spread vigorously, so it's important to use containment measures to prevent it from becoming invasive. One option is to install a physical barrier made of a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or even a concrete barrier for large running types, buried at least 18 inches deep around the bamboo planting area. The barrier should protrude above the soil surface to prevent rhizomes from escaping. Its better just to pick a clump forming well-behaved Bamboo like Fargesia nitida.

Planting bamboo rhizomes or divisions: Bamboo can be propagated from rhizomes or divisions. If using rhizomes, choose healthy, mature rhizomes from a reputable source. Dig a trench or hole deep enough to accommodate the rhizomes and place them horizontally in the soil, covering them with a few inches of soil. If using divisions, separate a section of the bamboo clump, ensuring it has roots attached, and plant it at the desired location.

Watering: After planting, water the bamboo thoroughly to settle the soil and ensure good root-to-soil contact. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the establishment period. Once established, bamboo is generally drought-tolerant but will benefit from regular watering during dry periods.

https://youtu.be/1aHt_-WGCPs

Mulching and fertilizing: Apply a layer of organic peat free compost mulch around the base of the bamboo to help conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and provide nutrients. Avoid piling mulch directly against the bamboo culms. Fertilize the bamboo annually in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth.

https://youtu.be/ptBotSa2wpw

Maintenance: Monitor the bamboo regularly for signs of pests, diseases, or rhizome escape. Remove any dead or damaged culms as needed. Prune the bamboo selectively to maintain its desired shape and height. Thinning out some culms can also help increase airflow and reduce the risk of fungal infections.

I hope that helps you!

Lee

Hi @louforrest2023

Thanks for your question about your bamboo that's recently turned brown after planting.

Firstly don't panic if your new bamboo turns brown after planting. Usually, this is the plant going into shock as it is transplanted. The bamboo has lived in a container, where its root system was contained and watered, but this has suddenly changed as its planted into the ground and transplanted.

The fix is to ensure the bamboo is thoroughly watered, especially in the current heat wave or if planting in hot weather. Not just a sprinkle but a good soak. Another tip when planting bamboo is to soak the container of bamboo in a bucket for an hour before.

Moving it into compost whilst sounding like a good idea on paper has probably made this worse as its disturbed the rots once again! Bamboos actually prefer a heavier soil to a compost, but now you've moved it again leave it in the compost but increase the watering frequency to help it recover.

Tips for planting Bamboo:

Planting bamboo requires careful consideration of the type of bamboo, soil conditions, and containment measures. Here are some general guidelines to follow when planting bamboo:

Choose the right bamboo: There are two main types of bamboo: running bamboo and clumping bamboo. Running bamboo can be invasive and spread rapidly, while clumping bamboo grows in tight clumps and spreads slowly. Select a bamboo variety that suits your needs and the available space. Always check the type of bamboo based on your garden size.
Select a suitable location: Bamboo prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Ensure the planting site has enough space for the bamboo to grow without interfering with other plants or structures. Consider the mature height and spread of the bamboo variety you choose. Don't try and squash bamboo into small borders as they will always break free even if clump forming!
Prepare the soil: Bamboo grows best in fertile, loamy soil. Before planting, remove any weeds, rocks, or debris from the planting area. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.

Contain the bamboo: Bamboo has a tendency to spread vigorously, so it's important to use containment measures to prevent it from becoming invasive. One option is to install a physical barrier made of a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or even a concrete barrier for large running types, buried at least 18 inches deep around the bamboo planting area. The barrier should protrude above the soil surface to prevent rhizomes from escaping. Its better just to pick a clump forming well-behaved Bamboo like Fargesia nitida.
Planting bamboo rhizomes or divisions: Bamboo can be propagated from rhizomes or divisions. If using rhizomes, choose healthy, mature rhizomes from a reputable source. Dig a trench or hole deep enough to accommodate the rhizomes and place them horizontally in the soil, covering them with a few inches of soil. If using divisions, separate a section of the bamboo clump, ensuring it has roots attached, and plant it at the desired location.
Watering: After planting, water the bamboo thoroughly to settle the soil and ensure good root-to-soil contact. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the establishment period. Once established, bamboo is generally drought-tolerant but will benefit from regular watering during dry periods.

Mulching and fertilizing: Apply a layer of organic peat free compost mulch around the base of the bamboo to help conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and provide nutrients. Avoid piling mulch directly against the bamboo culms. Fertilize the bamboo annually in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth.

Maintenance: Monitor the bamboo regularly for signs of pests, diseases, or rhizome escape. Remove any dead or damaged culms as needed. Prune the bamboo selectively to maintain its desired shape and height. Thinning out some culms can also help increase airflow and reduce the risk of fungal infections.

I hope that helps you!

Lee