What bamboo to grow - clumping or running?

Is clumping bamboo a better option because it's non-invasive? It depends on what you want for the garden, including:

• how tall do you what the privacy screen,
• where you want to grow the bamboo, or
• how thick you want the garden hedge, etc.

Both clumping and running bamboos and their cultivars provide gardeners with unlimited options.

Related articles:

• HOW TO IDENTIFY NON-INVASIVE BAMBOO PLANTS?
• NON-INVASIVE BAMBOO PLANTS UK - WHAT ARE THEY?

Check out the clumping and running bamboo plants at the beautiful Secret Garden at Blenheim Palace, Oxford, UK.

Facts about clumping and running bamboos

Though the clumping bamboo plants are non-invasive, they pose risk to the built environment. 

The base expands over time, which can damage patio or fence structures. 

Also, their culms and leaves can cover the garden when neglected over time. 

Likewise, the running bamboos will run into the neighbour's side or invade the garden if you neglect them. 

So, it is vitally important to plant them right the first time. 

Here are some facts about growing the clumping and running bamboo plants.

Common traits of running and clumping bamboo plants:

• Running and clumping bamboo plants are fast-growing.
• Both bamboo plants require a lot of work to uproot.
• They do not grow as deep into the soil as trees do.
• Undemanding and low-maintenance plants

Traits of clumping bamboo plants:

• Most clumping bamboos are in the Fargesia group.
• Clumping bamboos have rhizomes that expand at the base.
• Some clumping umbrella bamboo is best for garden hedging and privacy screens.

Traits of running bamboo plants

• Most running bamboos are in the Phyllostachys group.
• Use a barrier to grow running bamboo. They are invasive.
• Running bamboos have rhizomes that grow along the surface.
• Some running bamboos are tall and ideal for tall privacy screens.

Warning about invasive and non-invasive bamboos

For every home and garden, there is a perfect bamboo. 

They are tough plants and will grow where you put them. 

But, before planting bamboo, always follow the 3 steps:

• survey the area,
• take precautions, and
• use roots barriers or pots.

These steps will protect the built structure near where you grow the bamboo plants.

Bamboo without barriers

Many homeowners may have inherited bamboos that do not have roots barrier. 

If you are in this position, it is not too late! Take a look at how we managed to control our running bamboo in this YouTube video. 

You can do the same, but it is hard work digging the rhizomes. Here is how to dig bamboo plants - you’ll need bamboo digging tools. 

Firstly, dig around the bamboo to a depth of 30 cm to 50 cm. Use a pickaxe, crew bar, and a pair of secateurs. See the complete list of tools for digging bamboo roots. 

Secondly, lay roots barrier. You can get them from your nearest garden centre or DIY shop. Or, use patio slabs or thick plastic sheets as root barriers. 

Then cover the hole, leave 5 cm to 10 cm uncovered. 

All in all, barriers are best for stopping clumping bamboo bases expanding, or running bamboo from invading other areas.