Bamboo Containment Barrier

Running Bamboos (Leptomorphic)

In certain areas natural containment methods are inadequate for control of a running bamboo. A physical barrier is required to prevent unwanted migration of an aggressive horizontal root system. The barrier is installed completely around the bamboo planting. The open ends are clamped together with a fastener.

The Bamboo Containment Barrier

The containment barrier should be installed to a minimum depth of 2 ¹/2 feet for running bamboos. An ideal depth is 33 inches.

A properly installed containment barrier will prevent rhizome migration within the barrier. 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 black polyethylene product that is formed from recycled materials. The barrier is available in 40 mil and 80 mil thickness and is 3 feet in width. Polyethylene is an ideal material for soil contact because it is tolerant of extreme pH conditions. Our barrier material is treated to resist ultraviolet exposure.

The 40-mil thickness is suitable for exterior installations in Zone 4-6 for all bamboo species. The 80-mil thickness is suitable for exterior installations in Zones 7-10 for all bamboo 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. We carry 40 mil thickness, 80 mil thickness and Stainless Steel Lock-Tite Fasteners.

A physical barrier prevents unwanted migration of the bamboos aggressive horizontal root system.

Barrier Installation Specifications

• 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.

Bamboo Planting Specifications

• Hole size = 2 times root ball diameter. Depth = 1.5 times 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.

Wholesale pricing

40 mill thickness: $2.50/foot

80 ml thickness: $5/foot

To order, please call 978-546-3581 or send email to info@newengbamboo.com.