Invasive Species - What a headache!

Here at Living Bamboo, we only produce and sell non-invasive clumping bamboo. While there are many applications that do suit running bamboo varieties, the majority of our customers, living in residential zones, simply do not have the right ecosystem to successfully cultivate and maintain running bamboo.

Removing or killing invasive bamboo can be a challenging task due to their aggressive growth patterns and resilient nature. Here are several suitable methods, including selective poisons, that can be used to effectively control or eliminate invasive bamboo:

1. Physical Removal and Barrier Installation: 
   1. Cutting and Digging: Cut down the bamboo canes as close to the ground as possible. Dig out the rhizomes using a shovel or pickaxe. This method requires persistence as new shoots may still emerge.
   2. Barrier Installation: Install physical barriers made of durable materials like HDPE plastic or metal to prevent rhizome expansion. Barriers should be buried to a depth of at least 60-80 cm to effectively contain the rhizomes.
2. Herbicides (Selective and Systemic):
   1. Glyphosate-based Herbicides: Glyphosate is a systemic herbicide that can be applied to cut bamboo canes or foliage. It moves throughout the plant, including the rhizomes, to kill the entire plant system. Care must be taken to avoid harming nearby desirable plants as this is non selective herbicide.
   2. Imazapyr-based Herbicides:Imazapyr is another systemic herbicide effective in controlling bamboo. It is typically applied to freshly cut bamboo canes and foliage.
   3. Triclopyr-based Herbicides: Triclopyr is a selective herbicide that targets broadleaf plants and is effective against bamboo. It can be applied directly to the foliage or on freshly cut canes.
   4. Garlon is a selective herbicide that can be injected directly into freshly cut bamboo canes. It is absorbed and translocated through the plant, effectively killing it.
   5. Tordon is another herbicide suitable for injection into bamboo canes. It is effective against the plant's vascular system and can lead to plant death

Before using any herbicide or chemical method, it's essential to read and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Additionally, consult with local authorities or experts on invasive species control to ensure that you're using the most appropriate methods for your specific bamboo infestation.

3. Solarization or Smothering:  Cover the bamboo-infested area with a clear plastic tarp to trap heat from the sun. This method heats up the soil, weakening and eventually killing the rhizomes and shoots over time. This option requires patience and can be difficult to accomplish without good initial setup and infrastructure.
4.  Repeated Mowing and Cutting: Continuously mow or cut down new bamboo shoots as they emerge. This method weakens the plant over time by depleting its energy reserves. This option also requires patience, a fair amount of labour and persistence. You will need to manage waste appropriately too.

Keep in mind that controlling invasive bamboo requires long-term dedication and consistent effort. Combining multiple methods and techniques can yield the best results, but patience and vigilance are key when dealing with these resilient plants.