Is Bamboo Good or Bad to Plant?
- Bamboo works as a border and property divider. It grows 1/3 faster than the fastest-growing tree, according to the University of Georgia. Running bamboo grows faster than clumping bamboo and tolerates cooler temperatures to zero degrees Fahrenheit.
- Running bamboo is invasive and can double in size every year. It will take over a landscape if left unmanaged. Clumping bamboo only spreads 1 inch per year, taking its time to fill in a space.
- Plant the bamboo. Look at the mature height so you have enough overhead space. Some bamboo can reach 120 feet tall. If you plant running bamboo for a quick border, install a root barrier 3 feet deep and 2 inches above the soil line to contain the bamboo to a specific area. It will save you a lot of work later.
