Cold Hardy Bamboo: Growing Tips and Tricks

The Basics of Cold Hardy Bamboo

If you're looking for a beautiful and resilient plant that can withstand harsh weather conditions, then cold hardy bamboo is a great choice. This type of bamboo is particularly well-suited for regions with cold and snowy winters, as it can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F (-28°C) without any problems. In this section, we'll discuss some of the key features of cold hardy bamboo.

What is Cold Hardy Bamboo?

Cold hardy bamboo is a variety of bamboo that has been bred to withstand colder climates. Unlike other types of bamboo that grow best in warm, tropical climates, cold hardy bamboo can survive in areas with freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall. This makes it an ideal choice for gardeners who live in colder regions of the world.

How Does Cold Hardy Bamboo Grow?

Cold hardy bamboo grows in much the same way as other types of bamboo. It requires rich, fertile soil, plenty of sunlight, and regular watering. However, one of the key differences is that cold hardy bamboo is able to survive harsh winter conditions without dying back. This means that it can continue to grow throughout the year, even in areas where other plants might struggle.

Choosing the Right Variety of Cold Hardy Bamboo

There are many different varieties of cold hardy bamboo available, each with its own unique characteristics and growth habits. In this section, we'll take a closer look at some of the most popular varieties of cold hardy bamboo and what you can expect from each one.

Fargesia

Fargesia is a genus of cold hardy bamboo that is native to China. It is known for its small, delicate leaves and graceful, arching branches. Fargesia is a clumping bamboo, which means that it grows in tight clusters rather than spreading out like other types of bamboo. This makes it a good choice for smaller gardens or for use as a privacy screen.

Phyllostachys

Phyllostachys is another popular variety of cold hardy bamboo. It is native to China and Japan and is known for its tall, straight culms and large, lush leaves. Unlike Fargesia, Phyllostachys is a running bamboo, which means that it spreads quickly and can be more difficult to control. However, if you have the space and are willing to put in the effort to manage it, Phyllostachys can be a stunning addition to any garden.

Borinda

Borinda is a genus of cold hardy bamboo that is native to the Himalayas. It is known for its thick, sturdy culms and large, glossy leaves. Borinda is a clumping bamboo, much like Fargesia, but it tends to grow taller and wider. It is a good choice for creating a dense, lush privacy screen or for use as a windbreak.

Growing Cold Hardy Bamboo

Now that we've discussed some of the key features of cold hardy bamboo and the different varieties available, let's dive into some tips and tricks for growing this amazing plant in your own garden.

Planting Cold Hardy Bamboo

When planting cold hardy bamboo, it's important to choose a site that receives plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil. Bamboo doesn't like to be waterlogged, so make sure that the soil is able to drain away excess moisture. You can also add compost or other organic matter to the soil to help improve its fertility.

Watering Cold Hardy Bamboo

Cold hardy bamboo requires regular watering, especially during the first few years after planting. Make sure to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. If you live in an area with a lot of rainfall, you may not need to water your bamboo as often. However, if you live in a drier climate, you may need to water more frequently.

Fertilizing Cold Hardy Bamboo

Cold hardy bamboo benefits from regular fertilization, especially during the growing season. You can use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, or a specialized bamboo fertilizer. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth that can be difficult to manage.

Pruning Cold Hardy Bamboo

Pruning cold hardy bamboo is an important part of keeping it healthy and looking its best. You should prune out any dead or damaged culms as soon as you notice them, as these can attract pests and diseases. You can also prune back any unwanted growth to help control the size and shape of your bamboo.

Cold Hardy Bamboo: Pros and Cons

Now that we've covered some of the basics of growing cold hardy bamboo, let's take a look at some of the pros and cons of this amazing plant.

Pros

• Can survive in harsh winter conditions
• Makes a great privacy screen or windbreak
• Can grow quickly and provide shade and beauty to your garden
• Requires minimal maintenance once established

Cons

• Can be difficult to control if not pruned regularly
• May spread beyond the area where you want it to grow
• Can be invasive in some regions
• May require regular fertilization and pruning to keep it looking its best

Cold Hardy Bamboo: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I grow cold hardy bamboo indoors?

A: While it is possible to grow bamboo indoors, it can be challenging to provide the right growing conditions. Cold hardy bamboo requires plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil, so you'll need to make sure that your indoor space can provide these things.

Q: Is cold hardy bamboo a good choice for a privacy screen?

A: Yes, cold hardy bamboo can make an excellent privacy screen. It grows quickly and can create a dense barrier that blocks out noise and prying eyes.

Q: How fast does cold hardy bamboo grow?

A: The growth rate of cold hardy bamboo will depend on a variety of factors, including the specific variety you're growing, the amount of sunlight it receives, and the quality of the soil. In general, however, bamboo can grow several feet per year under the right conditions.

Q: Can I eat cold hardy bamboo shoots?

A: Yes, bamboo shoots are edible and are a popular ingredient in many Asian dishes. However, it's important to make sure that you're harvesting them from a safe, non-toxic variety of bamboo.

Q: How do I control the spread of cold hardy bamboo?

A: To control the spread of cold hardy bamboo, you'll need to be diligent about pruning and removing any unwanted growth. You can also plant your bamboo in a container or use a barrier to prevent it from spreading beyond the area where you want it to grow.


Cold hardy bamboo is an amazing plant that offers many benefits to gardeners in colder regions of the world. Whether you're looking for a beautiful privacy screen, a lush windbreak, or just a stunning addition to your garden, cold hardy bamboo is definitely worth considering. With the right growing conditions and a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy the beauty and resilience of this incredible plant for many years to come.