Expert: Dr. Rakesh Kumar - 11/19/2008

Question
QUESTION: I recently planted two green bamboos next to each other in my backyard.  Both bamboos are about 15 to 20 feet tall.  Shortly after, I've notice ants are all over the stocks of one of them, especially for the stocks that are greenish brown.  I also noticed there are black plaque growing under the branches.  Is the plant infected with any type of disease? If it is, what is the cure and will it spread?

Please advise.

Thanks

Vincent

ANSWER: Dear Vincent
It is common problem in bamboos. Actually ants do not affect the plant but they are friends and eat the aphids growing on the plants. So please apply any insecticide, it will help you.
Rakesh

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the reply.  Just to clarify, you are suggesting using insecticide.  What kind of insecticide you would recommend?  Also, what will be the best way to transplant bamboo?  Some of my bamboo are getting too dense.

Thanks,

Answer
Dear Vincent,
Sorry for delay in answer. You can use any insecticide which can be easily available. If you want to transplant the bamboo just try to remove some culms with some part of rhizome and roots. But remember this work should be done in rainy season for better results.
Rakesh