Knowledgebase

Bamboo Removal #855522

Asked November 19, 2023, 11:27 AM EST

We have a 20 x 20 foot rain garden that handles the water off our roof.

Long story short ,we were away for three years and founda thick bamboo forest in the area when we returned.

We have cut down the bamboo to the ground,pulled what roots were could find, raked the area.

We have now planning to cover the area with 30 lb felt to kill any remaining roots. Will that work?  IF so, how long  must the cover remain in place?

Last, the bamboo came from the neighbors yard ...  they have a small bamboo patch about 2-6 feet on the other side of the fence... We can't be certain all the roots have been cut on our side. Will our covered roots on our side still be nourished  and not die?

Thanks,

Kent 

Washtenaw County Michigan

Expert Response

Hello,

To remove bamboo from a rain garden, you will need to dig out the entire root system. Bamboo is known for its invasive root system, so it is important to remove as much of the root system as possible to prevent regrowth. You can use a shovel or a spade to dig out the bamboo. Be sure to dig at least 6 inches deep to ensure that you remove the entire root system. Once you have removed the bamboo, you can replant the area with native plants that are well-suited for rain gardens. Michigan State University Extension has a great articles on rain gardens that includes information on selecting native plants and creating a rain garden at the below links:

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/soak-up-the-rain-with-a-rain-garden

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/rain_gardens_part_2_rain_garden_plants

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/eight_simple_steps_to_creating_rain_gardens



MORE INFORMATION ON INVASIVE BAMBOO:
According to the University of Maryland Extension, bamboo is an invasive plant that can be challenging to remove. The following methods can be used to get rid of bamboo:

Dig it up: This method involves using a spade shovel to dig around the base of the bamboo plant to loosen the soil. Once the soil is loosened, the plant can be pulled out from the ground, root ball and all. For non-clumping varieties, follow the plant’s rhizomes as best as you can to remove all of the underground shoots.

Keep cutting it back: This method involves cutting the bamboo back to the ground level with pruners or a handsaw. Repeat this process until the roots are exhausted of their energy store.

Pour on boiling water: Pouring boiling water on the bamboo shoots can help kill the plant.

Use vinegar and plastic sheets: This method involves covering the bamboo with plastic sheets and then spraying vinegar on the leaves. The vinegar will kill the plant by drying it out.

Opt for a commercial weed killer: A commercial weed killer can be used to kill the bamboo. However, it is important to follow the instructions on the label carefully.

Above information is at this link: 
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/containing-and-removing-bamboo

Another article is BAMBOO CONTROL from Clemson University at this link: 
https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/bamboo-control/

I hope this helps!
An Ask Extension Expert Replied November 19, 2023, 8:43 PM EST

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