Wild Bamboo Plant Problems

Bamboo Scale

• Bamboo scale is cited by the University of California Extension as a potential bamboo problem. Scales are pin head-sized, brown, white, green or gold, flat, round immobile insects that infest plants in large numbers. The bamboo scale occurs only on the wide range of bamboo plants including wild bamboo. Unlike many other scale species that create pits and distortion on infested plant areas, the bamboo scale does not harm the plant. Bamboo scale problem in wild bamboo is primarily of the aesthetic nature and does not require major management strategies.

Bamboo Aphid

• Wild bamboo is likely to be infested with the bamboo aphid, as stated by the University of California Extension. Aphids are soft, small insects with special slender mouths with which they pierce tender plant areas like leaves and stems to feed on plant sap or plant fluid. Aphid damage is characterized by stunted stems and yellow, curled and distorted foliage. Aphids are common plant pests with one or two species specific to each plant such as the bamboo aphid. The insects are found in large numbers on infested plants and are most prevalent during fall and spring. Control bamboo aphids by introducing natural predators like lacewings, syrphid flies and lady beetles in plants. Chemical control includes the use of insecticidal soap and neem oil.

Noxious Bamboo Mealybug

• The University of California Extension site lists noxious bamboo mealybug as among the many problems possible in wild bamboo. The gray insects are soft and wingless with elongated bodies and waxy threads emanating from the body. Noxious bamboo mealybugs infest wild bamboo in colonies resembling masses of cotton. The insect damage appears in the form of stunted plant growth, leaf drop and dieback of branches. The best management is to ensure that the plant is in good health, as vigorously growing plants are less susceptible to most diseases. Use insecticidal soap and narrow range oil as chemical control options.