The Best Fertilizer For Bamboo

Growing bamboo in a container is a fun and easy project. The plant grows so fast that children, especially, find growing it rewarding. Bamboo requires a lot of water and fertilizer several times a year to thrive.

Fertilizer

The best fertilizer for bamboo is a formulation of 21-5-6 of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, which is a common lawn fertilizer. Growers with Bamboo Garden suggest supplying a 3-inch layer of compost or rotted manure around the base of the bamboo as a supply of supplemental slow-release, natural nutrients twice throughout the year as well.

Timing

Apply the fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer. In the fall, give the bamboo a single application of 0-10-10.

Rate

Apply the fertilizer at the rate suggested on the label for the size and age of your bamboo. Sprinkle it on the soil at the base of the bamboo and water the soil to activate it.

Bamboo will thrive if planted in compost-amended soil in a suitable site and watered regularly. To encourage the healthiest, most attractive bamboo, fertilizing with organic materials will provide extra nutrients for vigorous growth. Chemical fertilizers are easy to overapply and the extra nutrients leach into ground water. Like any other grass, bamboo benefits from applications of nitrogen, a nutrient easy to furnish with homemade materials. They are also a source of potassium. The bulk ingredients are available at many retail nurseries. a nitrogen source) 1/4 part agricultural lime, 1/4 part gypsum (or double the agricultural lime), 1/2 part dolomitic lime (lime is a calcium source), 1 part bone meal, rock phosphate or guano (for phosphorus) and 1/2 to 1 part kelp meal (for trace minerals).