Can You Cut Bamboo to Make More Plants?

Division Time

• According to Auburn University, bamboo propagation takes place through division of clumps or division of rhizomes. Divide clumps in spring, before new growth starts; look for new canes at the outskirt of the clump. Cut down with a shovel to divide these new canes from the main clump, including their rhizome and root system. Dig up entire rhizomes at the same time, before new growth starts, and look for natural divisions in the root system. Each division should contain several buds with root growth. Cut the rhizomes at these divisions to propagate the plants.

New Sites

• Choose and prepare new planting sites before you divide the established bamboo to keep the transplants quick. Bamboo plants do best in full, bright sunshine and in quick-draining soil with 10 to 15 feet for each new rhizome or clump. If you have vining bamboo, choose new sites near walls or fences for support during growth.

Soil and Nutrition

• Bamboo needs moist, loose, fertile soil for growth and expansion. The University of Georgia recommends mixing 3 to 6 inches of organic compost into the top 12 inches of soil in any planting site to build this loose, rich foundation. Plant bamboo clumps or rhizomes so that the top of the root ball sits at soil level, and fill holes in completely to eliminate air pockets.

Maintenance Care

• Water the new bamboo clumps twice a week with 1 inch of water. Maintain this watering schedule for six months to ensure rooting and establishment. Fertilize the new bamboo plants one year after transplant with granular 10-10-10 fertilizer. Feeding the plants too early may result in root burn. Use 2 to 3 inches of organic mulch over the soil to keep the new plantings moist and warm.