Bamboo has a bad reputation with gardeners. Some kinds of bamboo spread aggressively, but there are some that do not.
There are actually two groups of bamboos: runners and clumpers.
Running bamboos don’t stay in one place, but clumping bamboos grow only a few inches wider each year.
Clumping bamboo makes an excellent visual screen and sound barrier, all without endangering the neighborhood. South Floridians have a large and diverse group of bamboo to choose from, but some types thrive in north Florida as well.
Plant your bamboo in full or part sun. Bamboo will tolerate a wide variety of soil types, but for best growth water and fertilize yours on a regular schedule, and don’t forget to mulch.
Bamboo is actually a fast-growing grass and not a tree, as some call it. The speedy rate of growth makes it a popular resource for all sorts of items.
Bamboo is used to create flooring, bed sheets, towels, and other fabrics. Outside, you can create fencing, trellises, or even water features.
If you’re in search of something unique that will add a special touch to your landscape, or a classy dash of style in your home, black bamboo will not disappoint.
It’s easy to grow: black bamboo will grow as much as 10 to 12 feet a year, ultimately reaching 25 feet in stature.
It’s easy to tame, so you can trim it to the height you desire.
Stop by the Sarasota Garden Club during the week from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and check out the black bamboo in the Quite Garden, one of the 14 gardens at 1131 Boulevard of the Arts.
(Submitted by CJ Danna, Sarasota Garden Club.)
Author: Siesta Sand
