Bamboo In Pennsylvania: A Guide to Growing and Cultivating

Aug 11, 2023

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Bamboo, with its graceful canes and vibrant foliage, can add a touch of exotic beauty to any landscape. But many of us tend to picture tropical climates when someone mentions growing bamboo. So it may come as a surprise that several bamboo species can survive (and even thrive) in colder climates. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best bamboo varieties for Pennsylvania. We will also cover some essential tips for growing and caring for them. So you can feel confident adding bamboo to your Pennsylvania garden.

The last thing you want is to plant beautiful bamboo in your yard or garden only to have it struggle or die. Thankfully, taking the time to select the right bamboo varieties will help you succeed. One of the key factors to consider is your local USDA Hardiness Zone. In Pennsylvania, those range from 5a to 7b (in a small region). If you are unsure what zone your home falls into, plug the zip code into the USDA Hardiness Zone Map. That will help you select from among the bamboo varieties that have proven to thrive in the state.

Phyllostachys aureosulcata (Yellow Groove Bamboo): This variety is exceptionally hardy and can survive in many climates. It is hardy from zones 5-10, so it will happily grow in Pennsylvania.

Yellow Groove Bamboo is known for its striking yellow culms with green stripes. It reaches roughly 25-30 feet high, making it the ideal privacy screen. And the best part is that it grows well in both full sun and partial shade.

Phyllostachys bissetii (Bisset Bamboo): Bisset Bamboo is a solid choice for Pennsylvania due to its cold hardiness. It grows well in zones 5-10 but does not need to get relegated to a container in colder climates.

Its dense foliage creates a thick, compact canopy. While it can reach a shocking 45 feet high, most Bisset Bamboo averages around 20-25 feet tall. Feel free to plant this in an area needing extra shade or as a privacy screen on your property.

Fargesia robusta (Clumping Bamboo): If you live in zones 7a or 7b, clumping bamboo is a fantastic choice. It is not as cold hardy as other varieties, nor does it grow as tall. However, this non-invasive clumping variety can thrive in parts of Pennsylvania's climate.

It features thick, upright canes and dense foliage, making it an excellent choice for creating privacy screens or focal points in the garden. The only downside is that it does not like areas that get particularly hot. So opt for a location with partial shade for this beauty.

©Ketta/Shutterstock.com

Choose a location that receives ample sunlight for your bamboo planting. While some varieties can tolerate partial shade, optimal growth and development occur when the plant receives at least five hours of full sun daily. Ensure the chosen site has well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, as bamboo does not thrive in overly wet conditions.

Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. This step improves soil fertility, drainage, and moisture retention. Bamboo prefers slightly acidic soil.

Plant bamboo from container-grown plants or rhizome divisions. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball or rhizome clump. Place the bamboo plant in the hole and backfill the hole with soil. Water thoroughly to settle the soil and remove any air pockets.

Bamboo isn't particularly picky. But taking appropriate care of your plants from the start will help them thrive.

Proper watering is critical for the establishment and growth of bamboo. Water newly planted bamboo deeply and regularly. Aim for moist, but not waterlogged, soil. Once established, bamboo is relatively drought-tolerant, but regular watering during dry spells will help maintain its vigor.

One of the best things for bamboo plants is a thick layer of mulch at their base. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the bamboo plant roughly two or three inches deep. But keep it a few inches away from the culms. Mulching helps conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Bamboo is an extremely fast-growing member of the grass family. So, it does need regular pruning to help control its spread.

The pruning process helps remove dead, damaged, or overcrowded culms, improves air circulation, and promotes new growth. It is best to prune bamboo in late winter or early spring before new shoots emerge. Use sharp and sterilized pruning tools to make clean cuts. Trim the culms at the base or remove them to maintain the desired grove shape and size.

Bamboo has a reputation for its potential to spread aggressively if left uncontrolled. Thankfully, there are some easy ways to help control that growth.

Installing a bamboo barrier around the planting area can help contain its growth. Bury it at least 24 inches (61 cm) deep into the ground. Regularly check for rhizomes attempting to escape over the top or beneath the barrier and promptly remove them.

Perform regular rhizome pruning to prevent the bamboo from spreading beyond the desired area. This step involves cutting and removing rhizomes that extend beyond the intended boundary. Digging a trench around the bamboo grove and installing a root barrier below ground level can help confine the rhizomes.

Pennsylvania experiences cold winters, and some bamboo varieties may require protection to withstand freezing temperatures. Here are some measures to help protect your bamboo during winter:

Before winter arrives, apply a thick layer of organic mulch around the base of the bamboo plants. The mulch acts as insulation, protecting the roots from cold temperatures. Use materials like straw, leaves, or wood chips for effective mulching.

For added protection against freezing temperatures and drying winds, consider wrapping the bamboo canes with burlap or breathable fabric. Start from the bottom and wrap upwards, securing it with twine or clips. This protective layer shields the bamboo from harsh weather conditions and reduces the risk of winter damage.

If heavy snowfall occurs, gently remove excess snow from the bamboo canes to prevent them from bending or breaking under the weight. Use a broom or a soft brush to carefully brush off the snow, taking care not to damage the plants.

©Peter Turner Photography/Shutterstock.com

While bamboo is generally easy to care for, that does not mean it is immune from issues. Here are some common problems to watch for:

Bamboo is generally resilient to pests and diseases, but occasional issues may arise. Monitor the plants for common bamboo pests such as aphids or spider mites. If detected, use insecticidal soaps or organic pesticides to control the infestation.

Unlike many other plants, yellowing leaves on bamboo should not cause much concern. It is a natural stage in the spring as the plant prepares itself for new growth.

Bamboo plants benefit from regular fertilization. Nearly any type of fertilizer will work. But watch for the nitrogen content. High nitrogen fertilizer should only get applied twice a year. However, lower nitrogen fertilizer will need more regular application.

Over time, bamboo may require the division to control its size or rejuvenate its growth. Dividing bamboo involves digging up a portion of the rhizome clump and separating it into smaller sections, each with roots and culms. Transplant the divisions to new locations.

Bamboo can be successfully grown and enjoyed in Pennsylvania with careful selection, proper care, and attention to containment measures. Consider selecting one of the varieties discussed in this article, or stop by your local nursery to see what else they have on hand.

©Peter Turner Photography/Shutterstock.com

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