How to Propagate Running Bamboo [Stem and Rhizome Cuttings ]

The plants are of two different types of bamboo plants,  Running and clump-forming bamboo plants. 

Not all methods of propagating bamboo are the same, yet one method may suit the running bamboo whereas the other may suit the clump-forming bamboo. 

The tips below will help you to propagate healthy running bamboo plants. 

Check out the tips for propagating clump-forming bamboo plants here.

Propagate bamboo from stem and rhizome cuttings

If you already have matured bamboo plants, then you can use the cutting from the branches, culms (stems) or rhizomes (roots) to propagate a new plant.

Take care when separating bamboo rhizomes. 

Use a hacksaw (or a pair of garden loopers) and cut at 45 degrees angle, 5 – 10 cm away from the node.  Avoid splitting them.

• The best time for propagating new bamboo cuttings is in late summer or early Spring when they reach their full growth and the new shoots are starting to grow, respectively.
• Take extra care when taking the new cuttings off an old bamboo plant to preserve the parent plant.
• Treat the new cuttings delicately for them to grow. 

Read about the bamboo best plants to grow in pots

Q. When is the best time to propagate new bamboo plants? Late summer is the best time because the cuttings will go to sleep and germinate in spring.

Bamboo propagation tools and preparation

The new cuttings will die if you do not put them immediately into water, or plant them in pots and containers.

It is perhaps important to have the following tools and materials available before taking the bamboo cuttings of bamboo plants.

Preparation: Tools you need to prepare bamboo cuttings

• Watering can
• Spade for shifting the soil.
• Pickaxe or garden fork for digging the rhizomes.
• Hacksaw or a pair of secateurs for cutting the culms and rhizomes.

Planting: Materials you will need to plant bamboo cuttings

• Soil
• Bark or organic materials for mulch
• Pots and containers for planting the bamboo cuttings.
• Rainwater or tapwater (avoid using chlorinated water)

Essentials for propagating running bamboo cuttings

Separate the cuttings from the parent plant early in spring or late in summer. Take the bamboo cuttings from the rhizomes, culms or even the base of the parent plant.

• Rhizomes cuttings: Cut the rhizomes with 4 - 6 buds long, use a pair of secateurs or garden loopers. The best tip is to look for new shoots at the buds. The shots have a high chance of germinating.
• Stem cuttings: Cut the culms 5 – 10 cm away from the node. Plant them deep in rich soil, either in a container or directly in the ground.
• New culms: This is my favourite because they grow every time. Check for new culms that have a couple of branches. Carefully, dig them up and prepare them for propagation in pots.
• Water the new cuttings/plants thoroughly.
• Mulch the new bamboo plant using bark or other organic materials.

5 factors affect the growth of bamboo new cuttings

Propagating bamboo plants is a long-term affair. Take these 5 factors into consideration when growing new bamboo plants.

1. Choose the site carefully

The two bamboo plant varieties in UK gardens are tough plants. But the new plants are susceptible to the weather. 

New bamboo plants grown from cuttings should be propagated in locations where there is a good amount of sunlight and away from direct wind.

2. Identify the garden feature you want

Running Bamboo plants are ideal for growing in the garden. 

They have tall colourful stems, unmistakably evergreen. Winterhardy, are permanent screen all year round.

Read about the features and cost of the two bamboo varieties and 13 types of bamboo grown in the UK.

3. Prepare the soil

Bamboos are tough plants. They can endure poor soils, but it is better to propagate the new cuttings in nutrient-rich soil topped with mulch.

If you’re propagating new bamboo in a container, use potting mix or well-sieved soils and fine sand.

4. Maintain early-stage care

The new bamboo cuttings will need the right amount of water and attention in Spring as the roots start to develop and the leaves come out. 

Pay extra attention when planting the bamboo cuttings in late Spring or early Summer.

Mulching is highly recommended as it will help to retain water in soil or pots and containers ( where the cuttings are planted).

5. Monitor new bamboo growth

While the bamboo cuttings are growing, you should regularly check them for any signs of wilting, bug infestation, weeds, and lack of sunlight.

Taking good care of the new bamboo cuttings/plants will give you a 100% success rate.

Key points for growing bamboo cuttings

Here are the key points for growing running bamboo plants

• New plants need some attention.
• Water generously to keep the soil moist.
• Running bamboo plants are ideal for outdoor gardens and tall screens.
• Grow cuttings in spring, use nutrient-rich soil and mulch to grow cuttings.
• New plants need constant attention. Water generously, keep the soil moist.

Important checks

The new cuttings will require care and attention when you see the signs of new leaves. So, check for the following.

• The soil remains moist, but not waterlogged. (Read about the best soil for growing bamboo)
• Check for unusual paleness on the culm and leaves, as any change in colour will reveal the condition of the cuttings.
• Move the new plants to a safer location IF the temperature drops or rises dramatically.
• Do not place them under big trees, when placing the cuttings in shades, as the falling branches will ruin your hard work.

Enjoy the growth and development of your new bamboo plants because they are amazing plants. 

Check out this article on Bamboo Plants that Thrive in UK Gardens, it is an insightful take on how to identify and grow new bamboo plants.

We hope this article inspires you to grow your own Bamboo plant in the garden and enjoy the beauty of this amazing plant.

This page contains articles on how to propagate healthy bamboo plants - check out the archive for more info.