bambooforum wrote:
When selecting bamboo for a particular location, I always follow this 5 step procedure.
1. Determine the lowest cold weather temperature. Be sure and use data from your specific area and consider the exact spot as well. In open fields the temperature can be lower by several degrees and more prone to frost than a location with a little cover. Eliminate bamboo varieties that will not tolerate your lowest cold temperature.
2. Determine main goal for planting. Do you want a screen or hedge? Do you intend to harvesrt shoots for eating or poles for structure? Eliminate varieties not suited for your needs.
3. Decide the shape and size best suited for your plans. Tall and narrow or wide and weeping. Bamboo grows in many shapes and sizes. Select varieties that fit your needs.
4. Determine annual rainfall. Many species will resisit light droughts as long as they get enough water when they are sending up shoots in the summer. If you do not get enough rain then plan for a watering system for your bamboo.
5. Determine sunlight exposure. Many bamboos will do well in full sun or shade, but a some more delicate species prefer full shade.
Good information, it can be easier to choose what I really want!
