Expert: Dr. Rakesh Kumar - 1/15/2003

Question
Hi!
I live in West New Jersey (Zone 7) and would like to know what species bamboo I should try to plant to produce a fast growing a dense "forest" on the side on my house for year round privacy.

Any suggestion on place to buy large quantities?

Approx rate of growth expected?

What problems are associated with bamboo growth?

Once planted, if some move into the grass area, can keep it under control with my lawn tractor?

Thank you,
Len

Answer
I think You should have Phyllostachys aurea in your area, this species provide very fast and dense forest for making hedge around your home. For availability and growth aspects you can contact any nursery near your home. Generally bamboo creates some problems due to its nature of fast growth, so, please think about it before planting. For completely removing you have to dug out it with all rhizome pieces.

Rakesh
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