How to train Bambusa oldhamii?
Posted: Mon Aug 02, 2021 4:31 am
Should I prune out selected new shoots to shape & direct growth of the b. oldhamii?
My goal is to create a 25' screen in a relatively narrow space, with most of the leaves above 5 feet. In November, I planted a 24" box of Bambusa oldhamii with 8-12' culms, between the west side of a 6' fence and a stepping stone path. The first shoot appeared 2 weeks ago, a husky, 1.75" diameter culm that is now over 3' tall. It was followed by 2 other nicely located husky shoots.
This morning, 2 new shoots appeared within a few inches of the first shoot, and closer to the stepping stone path than I would like. I am not pleased with their location, and I would prefer the plants energy go into the other 3 culms that are well placed.
Should I cut out those two new shoots, or would that damage the health of the plant?
What is the best way to prune bamboo shoots & culms, especially b. oldhamii?
There is a old skinny, yellowing culm in the clump that appears to be dying back. Is it safe for the plant if I cut out that yellowing culm now, or should I only prune culms in a particular season?
Anything I can do at this time to maximize the height of the new culms, beyond keeping them well watered and fertilized?
Thanks for your advice!
My goal is to create a 25' screen in a relatively narrow space, with most of the leaves above 5 feet. In November, I planted a 24" box of Bambusa oldhamii with 8-12' culms, between the west side of a 6' fence and a stepping stone path. The first shoot appeared 2 weeks ago, a husky, 1.75" diameter culm that is now over 3' tall. It was followed by 2 other nicely located husky shoots.
This morning, 2 new shoots appeared within a few inches of the first shoot, and closer to the stepping stone path than I would like. I am not pleased with their location, and I would prefer the plants energy go into the other 3 culms that are well placed.
Should I cut out those two new shoots, or would that damage the health of the plant?
What is the best way to prune bamboo shoots & culms, especially b. oldhamii?
There is a old skinny, yellowing culm in the clump that appears to be dying back. Is it safe for the plant if I cut out that yellowing culm now, or should I only prune culms in a particular season?
Anything I can do at this time to maximize the height of the new culms, beyond keeping them well watered and fertilized?
Thanks for your advice!