Knowledgebase
Eradicating Bamboo #869870
Asked May 24, 2024, 2:26 AM EDT
I was referred to contact MSU Extension by Home Depot staff. I tried to reach you by phone at<personal data hidden>, but your recording says you are only available M/W/F 9a-12p. Since I sleep in the mornings, I'm sending you my concerns/questions, although I would prefer to talk in person over the phone.
After invasive bamboo is pulled out by its roots from an individual's backyard, what kind of tarp is best to put on the ground it was on? I received the advice from more than 1 source to place a tarp and stake it down and leave it there for 2 years to see if it will kill off the bamboo. I have 3 autoimmune conditions and there are outside animals in the yard, so I do not want to treat the area with any toxic chemicals. Would you recommend any nontoxic solutions? My online research shows a root barrier is better than a weed mat. I was considering a 30" 60 mil barrier. Does it need to be at least partially buried underground instead of being laid on top of the ground, staked down with stakes, and connected with tape? Also should trenches be dug and vertical rhizome barriers be placed around the perimeters? Is plastic OK? Cost is an issue because I'm a disabled senior. Home Depot does not carry tarps for bamboo in their stores; they would have to be ordered. Would a tarp with chrome rust? Where would you recommend purchasing the products? Someone was going to rototill the ground because it was full of deep holes and very uneven after the bamboo was pulled out, but someone else said not to do it. What do you think? What else do you recommend? Any details would be appreciated! Thank you very much!
Kent County Michigan
Expert Response
Thank you for using Michigan State University Extension Ask Extension with your invasive bamboo plant question. I presume you are referring to the difficult to control Japanese Knotweed. First note that it takes 4-5 years of consistent management to eradicate it without chemicals. I see that you have done much already.
Note that no chemical will work on soils as they are all formulated to decompose when in contact with the soil. If you have had them pulled up as you indicated that is a good start. Yes, rototilling and grading will help level the ground. I know that you are resisting using chemicals, but this plant is near impossible to eradicate without them. I would recommend using a granulated pre-emergent such as weed stop or preen before applying your tarp. This will help prevent the seeds that ae probably still in the soil from growing.
I recommend using a heavy-duty commercial or agricultural grade permeable weed barrier or geotextile fabric over a solid plastic. However, old pool or pond liners are about 20-40 mil and can be a free option. They can be recycled as a weed stop. Poke a many small holes in it to allow air and water to drain through. Use landscaping staples to hold it in place.
Check stores such as Home Depot and Tractor supply for these products.
Here are a couple of pdf fact sheet links for more information.
https://mnfi.anr.msu.edu/invasive-species/JapaneseKnotweedBCP.pdf
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/sites/default/files/topic/Invasives/japanese_knotweed_control.pdf
Dear Beth,
In May 2024 you previously gave me advice on eradicating invasive bamboo (Japanese knotwood) in my yard (#0139791). I’ve been working on the bamboo issue for months, but car accident, injuries, and multiple unexpected issues got in the way. I’m trying to get the job finished soon, as a disabled senior. My pain prohibits me from finishing any more of the job myself. I’ve had trouble finding help, but may have found someone to finish this. I’ve already purchased the products.
I decided to use 30% vinegar to spray under the professional landscaping fabric because I am allergic or sensitive to toxic chemicals (like glyphosate) and have 3 autoimmune conditions. One question is how much should the 30% vinegar be diluted to spray on the ground when all growth is removed - to be strong enough to kill or inhibit rhizomes, but not be harmful to humans spraying it using protective gear or to animals. (There is conflicting info online.)
How important is it to poke holes in the landscaping fabric if it already has permeability? or were you referring to the possible pool tarp?
Someone is coming over on Sunday to possibly help (as a church service project), and if they don’t finish this, I have someone else who may help also. If these people do not actually help me, does your facility provide any help?
I look forward to your additional advice! Thank you so much!
Ruth Quackenbush
Just followning up that we did discuss options on the phone yesterday. using heavy landscaping and no water in that area. vinegar will not help in this case.
