Phyllostachys nigra

Spring - late · Outdoors

Feed with slow release fertiliser

Apply a general purpose slow release fertiliser, spreading it around the root area of the plant as it is coming into growth. (Or apply a liquid feed at regular intervals throughout the growing season.)

This is a simple way to provide a nutrient boost as a single annual procedure.

Spring-Autumn · Outdoors

Feed bamboo in pots

For bamboos in pots, it may be easier to feed the plant with a liquid fertiliser diluted in water. Stand the pot on a saucer or tray while the feed in water is absorbed by the plant. This may also help to revive bamboos that cannot be repotted.

Spring-Autumn · Outdoors

Water to keep the soil moist

For best results, this plant needs soil that is always moist. Water deeply and regularly as soon as soil appears dry. Even for established plants in the ground, a dry week can cause problems with some soils. Check plants in pots more often, especially in hot weather. Or install an automatic irrigation system which will do the hard work for you, even when you are away on holiday.

Without regular watering some plants never fully regain their beauty.

Spring · Planting

Prune bamboo to thin the plant

Remove some of the old canes cutting them off at ground level.

The plant is more attractive if canes are spaced out, rather than crammed together.

Spring - early-mid · Planting

Divide when too large

The plant can be divided if it becomes too large or another plant is required. This may involve physically dividing the clump in two, removing offsets or small bulbs or dividing rhizomes. The new plants can be grown in pots or planted in the ground.

Spring-Autumn · Planting

Root pruning to control invasive growth

Use a sharp spade to dig into the soil, cut and remove bamboo rhizomes and roots that are outside the desired growing area. Do this 2-3 times during the growing season.

Root barrier · Planting

HDPE root barrier to prevent invasive growth

Add an HDPE (high density polyethylene) root barrier around the edge of the growing space when planting to prevent invasive growth. Dig a trench at least 1.2m deep. Line the sides and overlap the material by 30cm. Barrier should be 7.5cm above soil level.