How to Propagate Wild Bamboo Cuttings for Use in a Hedge

Bamboo can grow to 45 feet tall in one growing season, depending on the species. Identifying bamboo species is difficult unless it has an unusual trait. While some bamboos grow in a clump, many spread by runners and can quickly get out of control if not properly contained by a hard plastic or cement barrier. Because it is hard to determine the species of bamboo, treat all wild bamboos with caution to keep them from spreading out of control. Few bamboo species are hardy enough to grow in northern climates, so select wild species from a climate similar to where it will be planted.

Sharp knife or machete
Starting soil
5-gallon pot

Instructions

- 1
  Locate bamboo culms or canes that are 1/2 to 2 inches in diameter. Cut across the cane with a sharp knife or machete at ground level.
- 2
  Cut off the top of the plant where the cane is at least 1/2-inch in diameter 1 inch above the joint ring, or node, and set it aside.
- 3
  Cut the culm into pieces that extend 1 inch above a node and 4 inches below it. No piece of stem should be greater than 2 inches in diameter. When finished several 5-inch pieces of bamboo stem will be available to root. Increase rooting success by cutting longer pieces and including two or even three nodes.
- 4
  Fill a 5-gallon pot with seed starter and insert the bamboo culm cutting so that the node is slightly below the surface. If several nodes were left on the plant, locate one of them above the soil surface and at least one below the soil surface. Plant the canes immediately after cutting.
- 5
  Form a ball of clay slightly larger the hole in the top of the bamboo cane. Press the ball into the hollow cane to seal it shut.
- 6
  Dampen the soil with water and keep the soil damp. Growing Bamboo requires 1 gallon of water or more per week. Transplant to final location when the root system is developed well.

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