Containment Barriers

Running Bamboos (Leptomorphic)

propagate on a horizontal root system or "rhizome",
are invasive,
may require a physical barrier to contain them, and
grow by radiating outward from the parent or primary plant, and require a containment barrier installed around the planting to keep it in control.

The Bamboo Containment Barrier

The containment barrier should be installed to a depth of 3' for running bamboos. The top edge of the barrier should extend 3" above the existing grade.

This containment method will prevent bamboo running in an underground manner; however, during the late summer, when bamboos "run" (send out their roots), a few rhizomes will invariably jump barriers. Check for these stray rhizomes on a seasonal basis and simply cut and remove them. This maintenance must be performed for 100% containment of running bamboos. We recommend that a site check for rhizomes be written into maintenance specifications.

Our containment barrier is a polyethylene product which is formed from recycled materials. The barrier is available in 40 mil and 80 mil thicknesses and is 3' in width. Polyethylene is an ideal material for soil contact because it is tolerant of extreme ph conditions and is resistant to ultraviolet exposure.

The 40 mil thickness is suitable for exterior installations in Zone 1-6 for all Phyllostachys speicies. The 80 mil thickness is suitable for exterior installations in Zones 7-10 for all Phyllostachys species.

Barrier Installation

Insert barrier in soil and position 3' above soil grade. Seal all joints with our Lock Tite fastening system: drill holes in barrier at bolt holes on fastener. Overlap joints 6" minimum for ease of installation. Center Lock Tite closure strap on both sides of barrier and bolt together.

Barrier Specifications for Hedges and Groves

Barrier Specifications

40 mil Thickness = $3.00/ft
80 mil Thickness = $6.00/ft
Lock Tite Fasteners = $25.00/each

Barrier Specifications/Construction

Hole size 2 times root ball diameter - depth 1.5 times the depth of the root ball.
Add well-composted manure (2 years old) beneath the root ball as a planting base to feed the bamboo.
Position the bamboo at the same planting depth as it was in the container.
Position the root-control barrier 3" above finished grade.
Soil within the planting area should facilitate deep watering and oxygen transfer to ensure healthy plant growth.
Adequate moisture should be provided so that plantings do not dry out during the first year.
Maintenance procedures should be followed to control and remove rhizomes that have grown over the barrier in late summer and early fall.