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Help Revive Planted Bamboo

jwmac79IXhXk4m_jwmac79IXhXk4m_ Posts: 6
in Problem solving
Looking for some advice regarding bamboo which I've never had experience of.  I've just planted out this bamboo (for border screening) having bought them in containers and sub divided them. It's taken a few months to plant out and by which time they aren't looking too healthy.  Most leaves have now turned yellow. 

Can these be brought back to life for spring/summer? 

Should these plants  be cut back at any stage to rejuvenate them and if so, when and by how much do I take off? Thanks

Posts

  • Hostafan1Hostafan1 Posts: 34,889
    Give them LOTS of water during the growing season and watch for new shoots at the base. Don't be in a hurry as growth starts later than many other plants
    Devon.
  • jwmac79IXhXk4m_jwmac79IXhXk4m_ Posts: 6
    OK super.  Will the existing shoots continue to grow if I cut them back 1 to 2 feet? Cheers
  • Hostafan1Hostafan1 Posts: 34,889
    each "stem" only grows vertically for one year. You may get little side shoots this year. I'd leave them in place. 
    Devon.
  • PlantmindedPlantminded Posts: 3,580
    The leaf fall is caused by lack of available water at the roots and wind causing the leaves to lose water by evaporation. As @Hostafan1 says, give them plenty of water in Spring and keep them moist but not waterlogged thereafter. 

    The new canes are produced over a short period of about six weeks. They will reach their full height during this period and won't get any taller.  Last year's canes won't grow any more in height or width but their leaves may reappear.  You can remove any of the existing spindly canes now at the base to improve the look of your bamboo. 

    A sure sign of dehydration is when the leaves start to roll inwards on themselves into a tube formation. They will then yellow and die. You can avoid this by keeping your plants well watered.  You could also mulch the surface of your planters with bark chips to keep moisture in and prevent evaporation - the soil must be moist before you do this. 

    Also I suggest you apply a generous feed of blood fish and bone to the soil surface towards the end of next month to help feed the new canes. This will help revive them.  If the roots are happy the plants will thrive!  Good luck and enjoy your bamboo!
    Wirral. Sandy, free draining soil.


  • jwmac79IXhXk4m_jwmac79IXhXk4m_ Posts: 6
    That's great advice and will hopefully reduce the chance if me killing them before they have their first season here at home 😄
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