Bamboo Control

An effective method for controlling bamboos in several genera (Bambusa, Phyllostachys and Pseudosassa), was developed by Dr. Francis Gouin, Agronomist (retired), University of Maryland. The procedure, slightly modified, is as follows:

1.       Cut the bamboo down to the ground in spring (e.g., June). Depending on the type of bamboo you are working with, you will need either a weed whip/weed whacker type tool or a chain saw to accomplish this. A hand-held pruning snips is also possible for the thin-stemmed running bamboos but is more labor intensive.

2.       Allow the bamboo to regrow during the summer.

3.       In October or early November, on a clear, sunny, non?breezy day, spray the leaves of regrown plants with a 2 % rate of a 41% glyphosate isopropylamine salt (e.g., Roundup Pro), mixed with water, according to the label directions. Apply thoroughly just to the point of drip.

4.       Wait 10-14 days and reapply the glyphosate at the same rate.

5.       After the second treatment, leave the bamboo alone. Do not cut, mow, or remove plant material. The following spring, the bamboo will be browned out and should not grow back. At this point, you can mow the dead vegetation. If any bamboo remains or does reappear, repeat the procedure.

**IMPORTANT CAUTION: Glyphosate is a non?selective herbicide and will kill nearly any plant that it comes in contact with. Apply the material carefully, avoiding drift, or you will lose much more than the bamboo.

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Prepared by:  Jil Swearingen, Entomologist, National Park Service, National Capital Region, Center for Urban Ecology, 4598 MacArthur Blvd., N.W., Washington, DC 20007. March 30, 2004.