Caring For Bamboo

Nowadays, bamboo has become one of the worlds most popular decorative plants, both indoor and outdoor. It's easy care nature is appealing to bamboo enthusiasts and in some cases, total bamboo nuts even develop a relationship with their plants!

So what about the various types of bamboo on offer. Let's take a look at a few:

Bamboo is grass with a woody stem bringing a charming oriental look to any room or garden and is available in many shapes and sizes. From miniature bamboo plants to 30-foot giants, bamboo has luxuriant and evergreen foliage. Some bamboo species can grow up to 1 meter a day, although the kind of bamboo you usually get from a garden center will probably grow slower.

The natural environment of bamboo includes the temperate climate regions in Asia and the islands of the Pacific Ocean. Bamboo requires only little care and attention. If you plan to keep it confined to a specific spot in your garden be warned. You may have a lot of digging to do if you let it grow unchecked. When buying bamboo for outside purposes you have to identify those species which have a running root system and those that don't. This will save you a lot of grief at a later stage.

Most bamboo plants that grow outside enjoy a sheltered spot and direct sunlight, even though some species may tolerate light shade as well. The soil has to be well drained, but not too dry. If you plant it in the garden, it is recommended to give it a 2-3 foot barrier in the ground around the spot where you planted it.

Bamboo that is kept indoors needs little care. Glass containers in my opinion are best to use because it allows you to check on things like water level and quality. If your indoor bamboo plant is getting constant sunlight then watch for signs of algae. Some mild fertilizer solution from time to time will also benefit your plant.

So, with a just a little effort, you will benefit from the stylish look that bamboo gives to any environment for a long time.