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How to revive dried out bamboo

zoeward40zoeward40 Posts: 3
in Problem solving
Hi, I recently discovered I've stupidly allowed two potted bamboos (running variety) to dry out with the dry spring we've had. Most of the leaves on the plants have gone brown. I've given them fresh compost and am watering them regularly now, but someone advised I should prune them to get them to send out new growth. The stems don't seem to have dried out, just the leaves. Can anyone advise how hard I should prune them? Or should I just remove the leaves? I can't seem to find any advice online. Ideally I don't want to lose the existing stems but I'll do whatever is best for the plants. Thank you!

Posts

  • ObelixxObelixx Posts: 30,090
    I think a lot depends on which variety they are.

    If they are OK they'll produce new leaves on old stems as well as new stems with new leaves so I would leave them be for a month or two other than feeding and watering.   Once you see new growth you can think about dividing and multiplying your stock.


    Vendée - 20kms from Atlantic coast.
    "The price good men (and women) pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men (and women)."
    Plato
  • zoeward40zoeward40 Posts: 3
    Unfortunately I don't know the type, although I know one is black bamboo. Thank you for the advice @Obelixx I will wait and see what happens, fingers crossed they'll be fine.
  • DovefromaboveDovefromabove Posts: 88,147
    Monty Don demonstrated thinning out/cutting back bamboo on Friday. You can’t ‘prune’ it by chopping the top off ... you’ll just be left with a lot of stumpy canes and no leaves. 

    Gardening in Central Norfolk on improved gritty moraine over chalk ... free-draining.





  • zoeward40zoeward40 Posts: 3
    Thank you @Dovefromabove, that's useful to know. I'll see if I can find it on catch up.
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