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Bamboo is basically a giant grass, so you can visualize how it spreads through roots and rhizomes. Not all bamboos are invasive, but the running types of bamboo have root masses that travel 3'-4' deep, and spread 15'-20'. You can starve the roots by keeping the tops continually cut down. If you're persistent the plants will eventually run out of energy to produce new canes because there's no above-ground photosynthesis taking place. Digging the roots is the only sure-fire way of eradicating bamboo. You might be able to speed the process by covering the soil with black plastic after cutting down the tops of the plants. If the area gets a lot of direct sunshine, the ground will heat up, basically killing the roots. Leave the plastic on for 4 to 6 weeks in the midst of summer heat and sun. Chemical herbicides are least effective; they may kill the tops of the plants but the roots are hardy and will send out new shoots. However, you might try cutting the canes down to ground level and immediately painting the stubs with Round Up or Brush B Gon. These chemicals will be transported down to the roots and should kill the roots. You may need to continue to cut and paint for a year or more but eventually you'll get good control of the bamboo. Best wishes with your project! |
