It can become invasive if not properly contained and can wreak havoc on yours and neighbouring properties
16:03, 19 May 2025Updated 17:24, 19 May 2025
Bamboo has been dubbed the new ‘Japanese Knotweed’ by experts (Image: Getty )
Gardeners are being warned over planting bamboo which has been dubbed the new ‘Japanese Knotweed’ after reports of it destroying homes and gardens. Experts are urging householders to exercise caution when choosing which species of the plant and never to plant it directly in the garden.
Bamboo has been a popular choice since the nineties and noughties as it requires very little maintenance and it can add an exotic look to gardens. It also provides an ideal habitat for various wildlife species, with birds, insects, and small mammals using it for shelter and food.
It is also a good choice for providing privacy and windbreaks in the garden. But if it’s not contained properly it can cause major damage.
Experts from GardeningExpress.co.uk have urged Brits to choose the right bamboo species and grow it in pots and planters where possible to avoid it taking over gardens and becoming a nuisance.
Some parts of Britain are now apparently in a ‘Bamboo crisis’ as misinformed gardeners have unknowingly planted unruly species in their gardens, leaving it to wreak havoc on their own and neighbouring properties.
Young bamboo shoots poking up from the ground. It can cause havoc in your garden and even your home.
(Image: Getty)
A couple told The Telegraph they spotted bamboo growing into their conservatory by the garden threshold. They said their neighbour’s garden was ‘full of it’ and despite lifting the garden path and taking measures to kill the plant, they were forced to demolish their conservatory.
They told the publication it would cost them £60K to rebuild it.
Environet, a UK specialist in surveying and removing invasive plants, recently added a question about bamboo to their yearly survey.
Emily Grant, director of operations told the Guardian: “In our latest research, 71% of people weren’t aware that bamboo could cause any damage and 84% were not aware that it could prompt legal claims between neighbours or hinder property sales.”
Chris Bonnett from GardeningExpress.co.uk said: “Bamboo is ideal for garden designs that call for dramatic backdrops, privacy screens, or stand-alone features.
“You can get black and green varieties and they’re very hardy and low maintenance, which is perfect for Brits that aren’t that green-fingered.
“However, if you’re growing running varieties it’s a good idea to keep them in pots and planters in order to control the growth and spread. It’s as simple as that!
“You should also watch out for pests like aphids and spider mites, and use natural remedies or appropriate pesticides to manage infestations.”
Here is Gardening Express’ advice on how to safely grow bamboo:
Choose the right species
Clumping bamboo grows in tight clusters or clumps, with new shoots emerging close to the base of the plant. It is much easier to manage, making it ideal for most gardens. On the other hand, running bamboo spreads quickly through underground rhizomes, sending up new shoots at a distance from the main plant. This means it can quickly become invasive if not properly contained.
Grow in pots and planters
In order to maintain better control of bamboo’s growth and spread, it’s a good idea to plant it in pots and planters. Contained bamboo is typically easier to manage and prune, and it helps in maintaining the desired size and shape of the plant.
Bamboo in containers can also be easily relocated to sheltered areas during extreme weather conditions, protecting them from harsh winters or intense summers.
Plant at the right time
For best results, you should plant bamboo in spring or early summer. The soil begins to warm up in spring, providing a better environment for root growth.
Maintain regularly
Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure healthy and attractive bamboo growth. Newly planted bamboo needs frequent watering until it establishes a strong root system, so make sure to water it thoroughly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Thin it out
Over time, bamboo clumps can become dense with many canes, leading to overcrowding. Thinning helps reduce this density, ensuring that the remaining canes have enough space to grow properly. It also allows more light and air to reach the interior of the clump, promoting healthier growth and reducing the risk of fungal infections and other issues.
Simply look for older, less productive canes that may be yellowing or showing signs of age. These canes often have fewer leaves and are less vigorous. Use sharp pruning tools to cut these canes at ground level. Avoid leaving stubs, as they can be entry points for diseases.