Replanting bamboo, which involves transplanting a division of the plant, is necessary for managing its spread or relocating it. Although bamboo is a member of the grass family and known for its resilience, the process requires careful technique to minimize shock and ensure the new plant establishes itself successfully. By preparing the division and the new location thoroughly, you lay the foundation for the bamboo to thrive in its new environment.
Pre-Transplant Preparation
The most favorable time for replanting bamboo is in the late winter or very early spring, just before the plant begins to form new shoots for the season. Transplanting during this dormant or pre-growth phase allows the root system to recover and establish itself before the high demand of summer growth. Late fall, after the growing season has finished, can also be a suitable window for moving the plant.
Gathering the correct supplies, including a sharp spade, a saw or heavy-duty shears for cutting the root mass, and a soil amendment like compost, is important. A day or two before you plan to move the bamboo, thoroughly water the existing clump to saturate the root ball, which helps the roots hold together and reduces the severity of transplant shock.
The new planting site or container must be fully prepared before you begin the extraction process. Dig a hole that is at least twice as wide as the anticipated root ball, incorporating well-draining, organic-rich soil into the base. Minimizing the amount of time the bamboo’s sensitive roots are exposed to air and sun is a primary factor in the success of the transplant.
Dividing and Extracting the Bamboo
The technique for dividing the original plant depends on the type of bamboo you are moving. For running bamboo, the division process involves isolating a section of the rhizome. You should select a healthy portion that contains at least three to five culms and a dense mass of active, fibrous roots.
You will need to use a clean, very sharp spade or saw to cut through the tough rhizomes and roots to separate the division from the parent plant. When dealing with clumping bamboo, the root mass is more compact, requiring you to cut a section directly from the main root ball. A good rule of thumb is to aim for a root ball diameter that is approximately one-third the height of the culms you are retaining.
Once the section is cut, gently ease the root ball out of the ground. Any damage to the root system should be minimized, as the roots are highly sensitive to drying out. If you cannot immediately replant the division, you should temporarily place the root mass in a bucket of water or wrap it in a moist burlap cloth to keep it hydrated.
The Replanting Process
With the division ready, place it into the prepared new hole, ensuring the bamboo is positioned at the exact same depth it was growing in its original location. Planting too deeply can smother the crown, while planting too high can cause the roots to dry out quickly. The top of the root ball should be level with the surrounding soil.
Begin backfilling the hole with the amended soil mixture, gently tamping the soil around the root ball to eliminate large air pockets that prevent proper root contact. Once the hole is mostly filled, give the division a deep, thorough initial watering immediately after planting to help settle the soil and fully hydrate the root zone.
Essential Post-Transplant Care
Following the replanting, maintaining consistent moisture is important for the bamboo’s survival and recovery from transplant shock. For the first two months, the soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged, as the newly cut root system is unable to efficiently draw water from the soil. A reduction in moisture uptake can manifest as leaf curl or leaf drop, which are common signs of transplant stress.
To help the plant conserve moisture and regulate the soil temperature, apply a generous two-to-three-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the newly planted bamboo. It is important to keep the mulch from directly touching the culms to prevent moisture buildup that could lead to rot. Immediately after planting, you should also prune back about one-third of the existing culms or foliage on the division.
This reduction in above-ground mass lowers the overall demand for water and nutrients, which significantly reduces the stress on the newly forming roots. You should delay any fertilization until the bamboo shows clear signs of new growth, which typically takes six to eight weeks. Premature fertilization can burn sensitive roots, so wait until the plant is actively growing before providing supplemental nutrients.