What is a non-tracking bamboo ?
A non-tracking bamboo is a bamboo whose clump will thicken little by little, about 5 cm on each side, every year.
Most of them belong to the Fargesia family. Among them, Fargesia robusta 'Campbell', particularly requested by individuals and professionals.
The advantages of Fargesia robusta 'Campbell' bamboo
- Its growth is relatively fast.
- It can reach 3 to 5 meters high, depending on the growing conditions (soil quality, irrigation...), and its growth habit is erect, which allows it to be used to form a hedge, whereas other Fargesias, such as Fargesia rufa, have a much more open habit.
- It tolerates full sun exposure, whereas many Fargesias will require a semi-shaded exposure or a cool soil with relatively mild temperatures, as in Normandy or Brittany.
How to grow Fargesia?
Fargesia will produce canes twice a year: a first important time, in the second part of spring, then a second time, more modestly, in the beginning of autumn.
Be careful: if the canes are very strong when they are out of the ground, they are very fragile when they emerge.
Fargesia accept most soils, not too sandy (too filtering), nor waterlogged in winter. They are greedy grasses that appreciate generous contributions of compost at planting. Then, we install an organic mulch (straw, RCW, small thickness of lawn clippings) in order to keep the soil fresh while letting the young canes grow. Woven fabric should be avoided because the canes have difficulty to pass through.
Once planted, bamboos require no maintenance and are pest free.
How far apart should bamboo be planted to make a hedge?
Knowing that the bamboos will eventually join together will depend on your patience. If you are in a hurry to get a compact hedge, plant every 20 to 30 cm. But if you have time, or if your budget is limited, you can space them one meter apart (then count on ten years for them to join).
The multiplication of bamboo
Bamboo multiplies by division, which explains its price, sometimes a bit high: the division takes time. Some bamboos are also multiplied 'in vitro'. But this can lead to a more compact habit and a smaller size in the first years.
Can Fargesia be grown in pots?
Be careful, Fargesia is not a very drought resistant bamboo. It is therefore necessary to be vigilant, especially since it does not show any particular signs when it is thirsty. In winter, if the water in the pot freezes, it can die of thirst.
