How Fast Does Nandina Domestica Grow?

Growing Conditions

• Heavenly bamboo is highly adaptable and will grow under less-than-ideal conditions. However, a favorable planting site will produce healthier, more vigorous growth. Full sun is best, although it benefits from light afternoon shade in hotter climates. Although shade tolerant, heavenly bamboo will lose the characteristic reddish tint of its foliage if deprived of sunlight. Moist, mildly acidic soil provides the ideal conditions for healthy root growth, but the soil must be well drained to prevent root damage. Avoid planting areas with alkaline soil because it may cause chlorosis, a nutrient deficiency. If growing heavenly bamboo in a frost-prone area, plant it with southerly exposure against a sheltering wall to prevent damage to its stems and roots.

Planting Season

• As with most shrubs, heavenly bamboo grows most vigorously during its first few years in the garden. Planting during the right season will give the shrub a head start, helping it to fill its intended role in the garden in a shorter amount of time. In warmer areas where frost is rare and droughts are common, plant heavenly bamboo in autumn so the winter rainfall will provide moisture during the vitally important early establishment phase. In cooler climates, plant in spring after the last spring frost. Avoid planting shrubs during the heat of summer because moisture loss may cause them to fail prematurely.

Care

• Heavenly bamboo requires very little hands-on maintenance if planted in a suitable site. However, some light routine care will help the shrub look its best. Water to a 4-inch depth each week during its first summer in the garden to promote a dense root system. Once established, water only during periods of extreme heat or drought. A thick layer of mulch around the base will help conserve water and protect the roots from temperature fluctuations, particularly in very hot or very cold climates. Pruning and fertilizing, while not required, will promote a bushier, more compact shape and greater fruiting, especially if the soil is poor or the lighting conditions are somewhat dim.

Considerations

• Its ease of growth and robust nature make heavenly bamboo a boon for many landscapers and gardeners. However, this trait may also cause it to become an invasive plant in warmer climates. Trimming off fruit before it ripens, laying down weed barriers and mulching heavily beneath the shrubs will help prevent unwanted seedlings from taking root, although manual removal may be required for already established seedlings. Additionally, throw the pruned fruit clusters in the trash rather than in a compost pile because they may still ripen and germinate after removal.