Fishing pole bamboo, often recognized by its common name, is a versatile plant valued for its strong, straight culms, which are suitable for various purposes, including fishing poles. Its unique characteristics make it a sought-after material in certain crafts and outdoor activities.
Understanding Fishing Pole Bamboo
Fishing pole bamboo is Phyllostachys aurea, also known as golden bamboo. This species is native to China and Vietnam. Phyllostachys aurea is characterized by woody, hollow stems, which grow 2 to 8 meters tall, with some reaching up to 12 meters. The culms, or canes, are 2 to 4 cm in diameter and transition from light green to golden yellow when exposed to sunlight.
A distinguishing feature of Phyllostachys aurea is the compressed internodes at the base of its culms, creating a tortoiseshell-like appearance. The plant has lance-shaped leaves, usually 5-8 cm long and 5-11 mm wide. As a running bamboo (monopodial), it spreads through an extensive underground rhizome system, with mature stands expanding 4-8 meters underground each year.
Growing and Caring for Fishing Pole Bamboo
Site Selection and Planting
Select an appropriate site for Phyllostachys aurea. This bamboo thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for robust growth and vibrant golden culms. A location offering protection from strong winds prevents damage to the culms.
Best times for planting are spring or fall. In milder climates, planting can occur year-round. Space plants about 3 feet apart for a dense screen or 5 to 6 feet apart for a more open appearance.
Soil and Water Needs
Phyllostachys aurea prefers well-draining soil that remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. It prefers rich, deep, sandy, and loamy soils, but tolerates various soil types. Good drainage prevents root rot. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0.
Consistent watering is needed, especially during dry periods and for newly planted bamboo. Mulch around the base retains soil moisture and regulates root zone temperature, as Phyllostachys aurea has a shallow root system that dries out quickly. Once established, it exhibits some drought tolerance.
Fertilization and Pruning
Fertilize Phyllostachys aurea to support rapid growth. Apply fertilizer in early spring, before active growth. A balanced slow-release fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 N-P-K, is suitable. Follow package instructions; over-fertilizing can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of cane development.
Pruning maintains the health and appearance of bamboo. Remove dead, damaged, or weak culms to rejuvenate the plant and encourage new growth. Pruning also thins crowded areas to improve air circulation. Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth emerges. For shaping or height maintenance, top culms just above a node.
Harvesting and Preparing for Use
When to Harvest
Harvesting Phyllostachys aurea culms requires selecting mature canes for strength and durability. Bamboo culms reach maximum strength between 3 to 5 years. Younger culms (0-2 years old) lack strength, while those older than 7 years become brittle.
Harvest bamboo poles during the dry season, ideally after the rainy season or in late summer to fall. Harvesting during this period ensures lower starch and moisture content, reducing susceptibility to pests and fungal growth. Harvest before sunrise, as starch content is lowest at this time.
Curing and Straightening
After harvesting, cure culms to prevent cracking and enhance longevity. Air drying is a method for curing bamboo. Store poles under cover, away from direct soil contact, to prevent fungal or insect attacks and humidity issues. This process takes 6 to 12 weeks.
To straighten bends in harvested culms, apply heat. As bamboo heats, its elasticity increases, making it more pliable. Gently bend and hold the culm until it cools and retains the desired straightness. Perform this process incrementally along the pole’s length.
Managing Bamboo Spread
Phyllostachys aurea is a running bamboo species that spreads aggressively through underground rhizomes. Proactive management prevents invasiveness and contains growth within desired areas. Without control, a mature stand produces extensive rhizome networks annually.
One method for containment is installing a root barrier. Place barriers around the perimeter of the desired growth area, at a depth of 24 to 30 inches, and angled slightly outwards. While no barrier is entirely foolproof, proper installation significantly reduces spread. Regularly check the barrier for any escaping rhizomes.
Another strategy is creating a trench around the bamboo. A trench 12 to 18 inches deep and wide exposes rhizomes as they attempt to spread. Periodically check the trench, especially during summer and fall when rhizome expansion is most active, to easily prune emerging rhizomes with a spade or hand pruners. This root pruning keeps the bamboo contained within its designated space.