Place or plant your bamboo in full sunlight. Most bamboos grow best when exposed to a full day's worth of sunlight, according to the American Bamboo Society. They also grow fastest in full sunlight.
Plant your bamboo in rich, loamy soil. The plants prefer slightly acidic soil. While some can grow in dry climates, most types of bamboo thrive in soil that is cool and moist, but well-draining. Many bamboo species grow in wetlands or marshes.
Water frequently after planting. Keep the soil moist. Plants larger than a 5-gallon size need at least a gallon of water per week. Do not over-water, however, or the leaves may drop off. Once the bamboo has reached the size you want it to be, reduce watering. Let the top layer of soil dry out before you water it again.
Surround your bamboo with at least 2 inches of mulch. As the leaves fall, leave them on the ground as an added layer of protection. Although bamboo is evergreen, the leaves do turn yellow and slowly fall out as new leaves grow.
Protect your bamboo from strong winds. The plants are prone to wind-burn, and the canes can be damaged or broken in a windstorm. Place your bamboo against a fence or house, or stake the canes to provide extra support.