Installations
Bamboo can be planted with or without a barrier. A barriers purpose is to stop the roots from growing outwards. These rhizomes(roots) will get stopped by the barrier and get redirected, running along the barrier. However the rhizomes will keep growing and in time will get cramped up along the barrier edge and maintenance will be needed to remove the excess rhizomes. If many years go by without this maintenance the barrier will not be able to hold back the bamboo rhizomes willingness to colonize. A barrier is useful so that the rhizomes do not invade nearby perennials planting's and under the fence towards the neighbors to invade there vegetable garden.
Bamboo rhizome barriers can be placed around an exsisting bamboo grove as well as a new planting. Barriers are 30 inches tall (2.5 feet) and 60mil thick (roughly 1/8 inch) and any length needed. 2 inches must be left showing above ground in order to visually see when a rhizome is trying to escape. 28 inches will be buried into the ground. Last the barrier needs a stainless steel clamp to join the ends together. Think of the barrier as circling the grove, but most of it (28") you don't see.
Planting bamboo without a barrier is fine. However it important to have ample space around the grove. When rhizomes grow far, you will have space to dig them up. Especially if its near a fence, your house, your neighbors, and driveways and sidewalks. Also at least once a year rhizome check and cut is in order.
Rhizome
- a rhizome is a horizontal stem of a plant that is usually found underground, often sending out roots and shoots from its nodes. Bamboo rhizomes really only grows in the top 8 inches of soil.
Before and After a barrier installion.
