In the quest for privacy and shade in our outdoor spaces, bamboo emerges as a versatile and attractive solution. With its fast growth and ability to form dense screens, bamboo is an ideal choice for blocking out nosy neighbors and adding a touch of tranquility to your surroundings. In this article, we'll explore the best bamboo varieties for privacy screens, their advantages, and how to use bamboo screening effectively.
The Best Bamboo for Privacy Screening:
When it comes to creating a natural privacy fence, clumping bamboo is often the preferred choice. Clumping bamboo varieties grow fast and can establish an effective privacy screen in just a few months after planting. Not only do they provide excellent privacy, but they are also non-invasive, making them a reliable and sustainable option for your outdoor space.
One of the top picks for privacy screening in Australia is the Gracilis "slender weaver" bamboo. This magnificent upright bamboo grows up to 8-10 meters tall and forms dense clumps of about 1 meter wide. Gracilis is non-invasive, making it a safe choice for any garden. It thrives in various soil types and growing conditions, making it an ideal screening solution for many landscapes.
Another great option is the Malay Dwarf bamboo, known for its hardiness and mildly arching form. While it may lose some of its lower leaves as it ages, it remains an excellent living screen, providing both privacy and shade. Malay Dwarf is particularly useful for creating an ideal environment for under planting shade-loving plants or for adding a low arbor to a protected pathway.
For those looking for a midsized privacy screen, Multiplex Goldstripe is a popular choice. Its adaptability allows it to fit into small spaces, grow in retained garden beds, or even in large pots. This exceptionally hardy bamboo can thrive in various climates, from the southern regions of Australia to the tropical north.
China Gold bamboo, with its beautiful lemon yellow stems adorned with lime green stripes, is another fantastic option for an upright screen. This vigorous variety can produce many stems during the hot season, allowing for a thick foliage screen that can be controlled to the desired diameter.
An alternative to traditional fencing and screening
Bamboo is an excellent choice for creating softer, more natural privacy screens. One primary concern is the maintenance required to keep the bamboo fence looking its best. Regular sealing and staining are necessary to enhance durability and prolong the fence's lifespan, whereas bamboo will continue to grow with water and seasonal fertilizer.
Moreover, bamboo fences may not be as sturdy as some traditional fencing materials, such as wood or metal. They might be vulnerable to damage in extreme weather conditions or if not adequately maintained. However, with proper care and attention, bamboo fencing can last up to 20 years, providing a high-quality, durable, and cost-effective fencing option.
