Question 1

Do clumping bamboos require a root barrier to keep them from spreading?

Accepted Answer

Generally, no, but they do prefer upwards to 8'+ of diameter to reach their full height and potential.  A root barrier can be considered in tight spaces to line and/or protect property lines and sensitive locations.  Enclosing clumping bamboo in root barrier is best avoided as it creates an compacted and difficult to extract grove.

Clumping bamboos have a compact root system that produces a tight, cylindrical grove of canes.  Most suitable varieties that thrive in the Seattle/Puget Sound region (esp. Fargesia and Borinda) are easy to manage with semi-annual cane pruning.  A simple wooden garden box or raised mound can further help localize the grove.

We're here to help you narrow down out and choose the best variety and talk about any containment concerns.

Question 2

Is bamboo toxic to cats and dogs (or other pets and animals)?

Accepted Answer

It's not unusual for dogs and cats to nip and chew some bamboo leaves off the branch.  Bamboo is a grass and likely triggers the same foraging instinct for digestive aid or curiosity.  It is labeled non-toxic by the ASPCA and generally not an issue with pets.

Bamboo canes, while non-poisonous, are less than ideal chew toys as they shred and splinter into potential choke hazards.  Bamboo can be shredded and used as supplemental fodder for pack animals.

Bamboo shoots are edible and have sugars that squirrels and rabbits can sniff out and eat.

Lucky bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana of the asparagus family), often confused with real bamboo, is in fact mildly poisonous to pets.

Question 3

What types of bamboo grow best in Seattle's climate for privacy screening?

Accepted Answer

Seattle’s mild, coastal climate is ideal for many hardy bamboo species that stay lush and green year-round. The best types of bamboo for privacy screening in terms hardiness, attractiveness and overall function are Phyllostachys (running bamboos) and Fargesia (clumping bamboos).

Phyllostachys is a running form and includes mid-size and timber varieties often conjured when one imagines bamboo.  Ph. aurea and aureocaulis are among popular container varieties for dense screening.  Taller varieties like Ph. vivax and dulcis are capable of  screening out a three story house. Running bamboos require some foresight, planning and containment strategy before planting them.

Clumping bamboos can be a great option for dense, green privacy and/or unique feature plants.  They have a different root system with gradual, predictable spread.  Fargesia robusta, scabrida, jiuzhaigou and rufa are each attractive, hardy and popular options in descending order of uprightness and height.

Question 4

When is the best time to plant bamboo in the Seattle/Puget Sound area?

Accepted Answer

Bamboo can be planted year-round in the Seattle area, but the best times are fall and spring when the soil stays moist and temperatures are mild.

Fall/Spring: Ideal times to plant.  This is when bamboo invests energy in the rhizomes which spread and create new canes.

Summer: Can be a delicate time to plant as new shorts are fragile, but certainly possible.  Attentive watering and partial shade for most varieties is necessary .

Winter:  Aside from minimal observable changes in growth, Pacific Northwest winters are generally mild enough to plant bamboo.

At Bamboo Collective, we specialize in cold-hardy varieties that thrive in the Pacific Northwest. We're happy to recommend the right species and soil conditions to create an optimal screen.

Question 5

Does bamboo stay green in the winter in Seattle?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many species of bamboo are cold hardy and evergreen throughout winter in the Seattle/ Puget Sound region, making bamboo an ideal choice for year-round privacy.

All varieties of Phyllostachys and Fargesia bamboo (among others) retain their green leaves well below freezing and endure maritime weather, frost and snow.

*Many varieties of bamboo will drop the newest leaves produced too late in the season.  A peppering of yellow leaves is normal.  Bamboo is generally maintenance free during the winter.  Cutting the tops off any canes that droop in the rain will help keep them upright.

Question 6

What are the best clumping bamboos to plant in the Seattle area?

Accepted Answer

For most instances, the best species of clumping bamboo for privacy screening is the appropriate variety of Fargesia.  Most varieties of Fargesia do best in dappled mid-day shade, but can handle full summer sun in the Pacific Northwest.  Each produce a thick grove of slender, gently arching canes which can be trimmed or hedged as needed.

Fargesia robusta (15'), 
Fargesia scabrida (12-14')j
Fargesia jiuzhaigou /all forms(8-12') 
Fargesia rufa (8-10')

Honorable mention to a handful of Borinda (including boliana and albocerea), Yushania brevipaniculata, Thamnocalamus (not as cold hardy) and Chusque (requires space).

Question 7

Does Bamboo Collective deliver or install bamboo in the Seattle area?

Accepted Answer

We offer delivery services for bamboo plants to Seattle surrounding neighborhoods and greater Eastside.  Delivery fees ($50 to $150) are based on plant size, the number of plants, and the distance to your location.

The person delivering can provide expert guidance on bamboo planting and will assist in placing the plants where you want them onsite.

Question 8

Can I grow bamboo in planters or containers?

Accepted Answer

Definitely.  Container grown bamboo can be a smart way to add privacy and beauty to the patio or landscape.  An extra bit of care is required: consistent watering, annual pruning and occasional fertilizer are required to keep it lush and green.

Bamboo Collective offers expert advice on container sizes, soils and can supply the best species for your needs.  We work alongside talented contractors and companies and can offer referrals for custom built boxes and installations.

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