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Bamboo is gaining popularity across the United States for its versatility , eco - favorable properties , and ocular appeal . But does this iconic works grow in the Prairie State ? The solution is yes – several bamboo coinage can thrive in Illinois when properly take and care for .
Illinois’ Climate – Assessing Bamboo Compatibility
While not a tropical plant , bamboo prefer warm temperatures and eminent humidity . Luckily , Illinois provides suitable climatical condition for many bamboo varieties .
Southern Illinois along the Ohio River is the warmest part of the state . But even northern Illinois around Chicago offers adequate warmth , humidness , and precipitation for bamboo during the growing season .
winter in Illinois can be harsh , with temperatures dip below 0 ° F ( -18 ° C ) The key is choosing dusty - unfearing bamboo coinage adapt to resist suspend term
Overall , Illinois ’ mood make it possible to create beautiful bamboo garden – as long as the right industrial plant choice are made
Best Bamboo Varieties for Illinois Gardens
With over 1,000 species to choose from , selecting the right bamboo for your Illinois landscape is primal . Here are some excellent smorgasbord known for their cold tolerance and ornamental appeal :
Yellow Groove Bamboo ( Phyllostachys aureosulcata ) – Can survive temperatures down to -10 ° F . Green canes with yellow grooves . Grows up to 30 foot . tall .
Temple Bamboo ( Semiarundinaria fastuosa ) – Tolerates dusty and light snow . Features morose green canes and feathery leaves . Matures around 20 ft . tall .
Alphonse Karr Bamboo ( Bambusa multiplex ‘ Alphonse Karr ’ ) – Handle abbreviated pickpocket to 0 ° F . know for yellowed - striped green cane . Typically under 20 ft . tall .
Taiwanese Timber Bamboo ( Phyllostachys edulis ) – Survives temperatures as low as -15 ° farad . Can originate 50 + ft . with 6 in . diam culm .
spread Timber Bamboo ( Phyllostachys viridiglaucescens ) – Extremely sturdy into the negatively charged teens ( ° atomic number 9 ) . culm turn grim - green at maturity . Height around 30 ft .
Growing Bamboo Successfully in Illinois
Proper planting and guardianship is vital to help bamboo thrive in Illinois . Here are some tips :
Choose a sunny location with well - draining soil . ameliorate dense clay by amending with compost .
Plant in bounce after final frost . compass maw 2x the breadth of source balls .
water system 1 - 2 times per calendar week until install , then 1 time for fledged plant .
practice balanced fertilizer in former fountain and midsummer .
Mulch around the base to isolate roots and keep back moisture .
Prune old culms and thin congested growth in late winter .
Protect from winter winds with gunny wrapping or evergreen hedge windbreak .
Controlling Running Bamboo in Illinois
Some bamboo species spread aggressively via hush-hush rootstock . To preclude indocile growth , instal a HDPE or metallic element rootstalk barrier around run bamboo planting . The barrier gently contains roots while allowing copious growing room .
Well - behaved clumping bamboo generally do n’t want solution barriers . But instal a barrier provides pacification of mind .
Bamboo Gardens Thrive in Illinois
The Prairie State ’s clime enables cold - hardy bamboo varieties like Yellow Groove and Alphonse Karr to showcase their gracefully arching canes , feathery foliage , and please textures .
So next sentence you look up to bamboo deck a tropic locale or Asian - inspired garden , remember – with the right-hand choices , this enamor plant can contribute its magic to landscapes across Illinois !
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Bamboo 101: What to know before you grow it
FAQ
Can bamboo hold up in Illinois ?
Is bamboo proficient to plant in your yard ?
Can bamboo produce in the Midwest ?
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