Warning over 'the new Japanese knotweed' by experts as it invades UK gardens

Plant experts have tagged a new green menace, echoing the dreaded Japanese knotweed, as incidences of unruly bamboo uprooting homes and gardens across Britain escalate. Advice has been issued to homeowners about the dos and don'ts of planting and nurturing this Asian import.

Over the past two decades, bamboo took off as a garden favourite due to its minimal maintenance requirements. This towering grass not only imparts an exotic allure to gardens but also serves as a refuge for various creatures like birds, insects, and small mammals seeking food and shelter.

Bamboo's reputation as one of the globes quickest sproutings makes it perfect for swiftly developing privacy screens or windbreaks. However, some species are known for their speedy propagation and can become pervasive if left unchecked.

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Certain regions of the country are said to be grappling with a 'Bamboo crisis' as naive gardeners have unwittingly allowed wild species to run rampant in their plots, inflicting havoc on both their and their neighbours' properties. Chris Bonnett from GardeningExpress.co.uk said: "Bamboo is ideal for garden designs that call for dramatic backdrops, privacy screens, or stand-alone features. You can get black and green varieties and they're very hardy and low maintenance, which is perfect for Brits that aren't that green-fingered.

"However, if you're growing running varieties it's a good idea to keep them in pots and planters in order to control the growth and spread. It's as simple as that. You should also watch out for pests like aphids and spider mites, and use natural remedies or appropriate pesticides to manage infestations."

Gardening Express has provided some advice on how to safely grow bamboo:

Choose the right species

Clumping bamboo grows in tight clusters or clumps, with new shoots emerging close to the base of the plant. It is much easier to manage, making it ideal for most gardens.

On the other hand, running bamboo spreads quickly through underground rhizomes, sending up new shoots at a distance from the main plant. This means it can quickly become invasive if not properly contained.

Grow in pots and planters

In order to maintain better control of bamboo's growth and spread, it's a good idea to plant it in pots and planters. Contained bamboo is typically easier to manage and prune, and it helps in maintaining the desired size and shape of the plant.

Bamboo in containers can also be easily relocated to sheltered areas during extreme weather conditions, protecting them from harsh winters or intense summers.

Plant at the right time

For best results, you should plant bamboo in spring or early summer. The soil begins to warm up in spring, providing a better environment for root growth.

Maintain regularly

To ensure healthy and attractive bamboo growth, proper maintenance is key. Newly planted bamboo requires frequent watering until it establishes a robust root system, so it's important to water it thoroughly to maintain consistently moist but not waterlogged soil.

Over time, bamboo clumps can become dense with many canes, leading to overcrowding. Thinning helps reduce this density, ensuring that the remaining canes have enough space to grow properly.

It also allows more light and air to reach the interior of the clump, promoting healthier growth and reducing the risk of fungal infections and other issues. Simply look for older, less productive canes that may be yellowing or showing signs of age.

These canes often have fewer leaves and are less vigorous. Use sharp pruning tools to cut these canes at ground level. Avoid leaving stubs, as they can be entry points for diseases.