What Are The Best Ways to Get Rid of Bamboo?

 

Bamboo is a beautiful ornamental plant, but it can be a nightmare when it comes to removing it. Its roots can spread like wildfire, making it extremely difficult to get rid of. And even if you think you've gotten rid of all of it, a single shoot left behind can sprout new bamboo plants and the cycle starts all over again.


Moreover, if bamboo gets out of control, it can even cause damage to other plants in the yard, or to structures like fences and walls. Not only that, but it can even spread into the yards of neighbors, causing conflict and resentment. If you're struggling to remove bamboo from your yard, this guide will offer different solutions for removing it, as well as tips on how to use it effectively.

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    METHODS OF REMOVAL:

    Digging

    One of the effective ways to get rid of bamboo is by digging up the roots and removing them completely. This can take a long time to complete and requires a lot of physical effort, however, it will ensure that the bamboo is permanently removed. Here's a step-by-step process:


    Soaking: To make the job much easier, start by watering the bamboo and allow water to soak into the ground and fully saturate the soil. It can take up to 2hrs for the moisture to fully penetrate the ground. Once the bamboo has been soaked, you can start cutting and digging.


    Cutting & Digging: Begin by cutting bamboo canes close to the ground so that the digging process can be easier and less messy. Then dig up roots with a sharp spade and a digging fork to help break up the soil and loosen the roots. Try to remove as much of the rhizomes as possible so that the bamboo does not regrow.


    Dig Up New Shoots: After you've done the initial work of digging out the bamboo, it's important to keep an eye out for new shoots that can pop up anywhere in the area where the bamboo was previously growing. Bamboo is a resilient plant, and it can regrow from even the smallest piece of rhizome left behind. If you see any new shoots, you can remove it before it hardens and becomes more established

    Smothering

    Smothering is another way to prevent bamboo from growing. It doesn't require major digging or any harsh chemicals. You just need to cut down the bamboo stalks and cover them with a dark tarp to prevent sunlight, air, and water from reaching the plant. Over time, the lack of these three essential elements will cause the plant to die off.


    This process is effective but it can take a bit longer for the roots to completely die. So it's important to be patient and to monitor the plant regularly to make sure it's dying off as expected. You can find dark tarps at most home improvement stores or online. Just make sure to get one that's big enough to cover the bamboo you're trying to get rid of.

    Hiring a Professional

    If you don't have the time or energy to tackle the task, you can consider hiring a professional. A landscaping company that specializes in plant removal, or any company that has experience working with bamboo knows how to handle it. They might even have their secret solutions that we haven't mentioned here.

    Chemical Treatment

    Chemicals can be a quick and easy way to get rid of bamboo. However, they should only be used as a last resort because they have a negative impact on the environment. Glyphosate is considered one of the most effective herbicides for controlling bamboo growth. 


    Some popular herbicides that contain glyphosate, such as Roundup Concentrate Plus and Bonide Kleenup Weed & Grass Killer can effectively eliminate bamboo. However, it's important to follow the instructions on the label carefully to ensure safe and effective use. And keep in mind that chemical treatment should only be used as a last resort.

    Dealing With Neighbor's Bamboo:

    When your neighbor's bamboo creeps into your yard you may feel angry and helpless, wondering what to do to stop it. But don't worry, there are a few things you can do. Before taking any other steps, first talk to your neighbor to see if they're willing to work with you to keep the bamboo under control.


    If your neighbor has permitted you to remove it, you can install a bamboo root barrier to prevent roots from spreading onto your property. Or you can try above mentioned methods like digging, smothering, or herbicide. You'll need to weigh the pros and cons of each option and decide what's best for your situation. 


    WHAT TO DO WITH THE BAMBOO:

    DIY Projects

    Even while trying to get rid of bamboo, you can use the canes for DIY projects. There are many DIY projects you can do with bamboo from crafting baskets, creating birdhouses, creating structures that support plants, and more. Plus bamboo is strong and durable, and it adds a natural, organic element to any space.

    Selling

    Rather than just throwing out the bamboo, you can make some extra cash and get rid of the bamboo at the same time. You sell it on a marketplace like Facebook or Craigslist. A lot of people are interested in buying bamboo for a variety of purposes.

    Giving it Away

    If you have more bamboo that is healthy and of good quality, you can reach out to anyone or organizations that could put it to good use. More organizations might be interested in receiving your excess bamboo. Some possibilities include local schools, community gardens, craft organizations, and wildlife refuges as they usually use bamboo to create habitats for animals.

    TO WRAP UP

    By following the tips and tricks in this comprehensive guide, it's possible to get rid of bamboo for good. While some methods are more time-consuming than others, all of them can be effective when done correctly. Just choose the method that best suits your needs, and whichever method you choose, be prepared for it to take some time and effort to get rid of all of the bamboo.


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