Running bamboo spreads rapidly throughtuberous rhizomesand, consequently, thisspecies is considered invasivein warmer regions of the United States.
Golden Bamboo Care
Golden bamboo is a low-maintenance, versatile, andhardy plant.
If you prefer a more airy, open look, space the plants five to six feet apart.
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Plant in the spring or fall if you live in a hot-summer area.
Gardeners in more mild climates can plant golden bamboo any time of year.
Young canes are green, but turn golden-green as they mature.
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Light
Golden bamboo prefers a position where it can receive ample sunlight.
While it can also toleratepartial shade, a lack of light can impact the bamboo’s growth rate.
Water
Golden bamboo does best with consistently moist conditions.
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However, many gardeners prefer to use manure or compost instead.
Either way, fertilize your bamboo in the early spring and then again mid-summer.
For gardeners in mild-winter climates, add another feeding in early fall.
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This will eventually help to kill off the underground rhizomes, which will be starved for nutrients.
It can take several seasonsand sometimes treatment with herbicidesfor your efforts to pay off.
This method will prevent it from spreading aggressively, and keep its sprawling height under control.
The container you choose should be at least 24 inches wide with a similar depth.
It must have at least one drainage hole, although two or three are better.
see to it it’s heavy enough so it won’t blow over in the wind.
Don’t bury the plant too deeply, as that can lead to rot.
Leave an inch or two at the top of the pot for watering.
Be prepared to repot your golden bamboo every few years.
Replant one section in your container.
But the following are some common indications that something is amiss.
Consider your watering schedule, as well as the condition of the soil around your bamboo plant.
If the soil is very dry, lack of water is likely the issue.
Adjust your watering schedule as indicated, and most likely the plant will recover.
Foliage Is Thin
Bamboo is a hungry plant.
If you live in an area where golden bamboo is not recommended, consider planting an ornamental grass instead.
Good options includeswitchgrass,‘Karl Foerster’feather reed grass, orpurple fountain grass.
Typically, lucky bamboo plants are grown as interesting houseplants, while golden bamboo is an outdoors-only plant.
Like other bamboos, golden bamboo grows very quickly.
Golden bamboo is considered a rare plant, though it can be found in prairies and woodlands.
