• Scientific Name: Arundinaria gigantea 'Macon'
• Sunlight Requirements: Full Sun to Shade
• Maximum Height: 20 feet
• Maximum Diameter: 1 inch
• Minimum Temperature: -22°F
• Growth Type: Running Species

Characteristics:

Arundinaria gigantea 'Macon' is one of the only two species of bamboo native to the continental United States. It reaches up to 20 feet in height with a diameter of about 1 inch. Uniquely adapted to swampy sites, it can thrive in areas with poor drainage where other temperate bamboo species cannot survive. The species has a broad tolerance for a variety of weather and soil conditions, growing successfully at elevations from sea level up to 2,000 feet in the Appalachian Mountains. It can be found in diverse soils, from sandy and rocky cliffs to rich alluvial areas in coastal plains. This bamboo can handle extreme temperatures ranging from -10°F to 105°F.

• Scientific Name: Phyllostachys Edulis 'Moso'
• Sunlight Requirements: Full Sun to Shade
• Maximum Height: 75 feet
• Maximum Diameter: 7 inches
• Minimum Temperature: 5°F
• Growth Type: Running Species

Characteristics:

Phyllostachys Edulis 'Moso' is the largest temperate bamboo species in the world, with culms reaching up to 75 feet in height and 7 inches in diameter. Its dark, spotted, and furry culm sheath is a key identifying feature. The plant also has large sheath ligules, oral setae, and auricles, which make it easy to recognize. 'Moso' is highly collectible due to its massive culms and unusually small, delicate leaves. While slow to establish, it is widely prized for its beauty. 'Moso' is a major species in the bamboo shoot industry, especially in China and Japan.

However, 'Moso' is challenging to grow in northern regions due to its early emergence, making its new shoots susceptible to frost damage. Its ideal climate range is in the southeastern United States, particularly east of the 95th Meridian West, within the 30-35 degrees north latitude. Its northern growth limit is around the southern Tennessee border (35° N), and it can grow as far south as the Florida Panhandle (30° N). It is not limited by typical altitude ranges within its climate tolerances.

General Planting Guidelines:

1. Handling the Plant: Always handle bamboo by the root ball, not the canes, to prevent stress on the plant.
2. Hole Preparation: Dig a hole that is about twice the width of the bamboo’s root ball to allow for soil amendment and room to grow.
3. Positioning: Ensure the root ball is level with the surrounding ground when placing it in the hole.
4. Soil: Use composted manure and quality topsoil when filling the hole. Bamboo is not particularly picky about soil types, but adding organic materials can help it establish faster.

Container Type:
Select the largest container possible, as bamboo will grow better with more space. Larger containers also provide better insulation from cold temperatures.

Soil Mixture:
For the best results, use the following soil mix:

• 75% Miracle-Gro® Moisture Control® Potting Mix
• 20% Black Kow Composted Manure
• 5% Biochar

Watering:
Water thoroughly and regularly, but let the soil dry slightly between watering cycles. Mist the leaves, especially for indoor bamboo, as they thrive in environments with high ambient moisture.

Light Requirements:
Bamboo needs as much natural light as possible, though it doesn’t have to be direct sunlight. Indoor plants benefit from grow lights if sunlight is insufficient.

Fertilizing:
For best results, fertilize bamboo twice a year: in early spring to encourage new growth, and again during the middle of the growing season to replenish depleted nutrients. Use an 18-5-12 Time Release Fertilizer.

Bamboo can be grown in most containers for 3-7 years, depending on container size, species, and growing conditions. Eventually, bamboo will overpopulate its container, requiring division. Remove 33-50% of the plant and replenish the soil. The removed portion can be used to start a new container or planting area.

Proper watering is the most critical part of bamboo care. Water daily for the first few weeks after planting, especially during hot weather, to help the plant establish. Even established bamboo will sometimes roll its leaves during extreme heat to reduce transpiration, which is normal.

For fertilizer, the three key numbers (N-P-K) are vital:

• Nitrogen (N): Promotes growth
• Phosphorus (P): Aids in carbohydrate transfer
• Potassium (K): Supports photosynthesis and helps the bamboo withstand drought, heat, and cold.

We recommend using a time-release fertilizer with biochar for better absorption. Apply 3 ounces per plant twice a year (once in spring and once during the growing season).

Bamboo spreads rapidly through its rhizome system, often extending as far as the canes are tall. To control its spread:

1. Trenching: Dig a trench around the area you want to contain.
2. Bamboo Shield Installation: Place the Bamboo Shield (High-Density Polyethylene) in the trench, angling it outward with 2 inches of the shield exposed above ground to prevent rhizomes from crossing the barrier.
3. Cutting Shoots: Cut any unwanted bamboo shoots that emerge to deplete the rhizomes’ stored energy.

A properly installed Bamboo Shield will last over 100 years if kept out of direct sunlight.