by Jo Barnes | photos by Amanda Cribdon Photography –
Bamboo. Home gardeners typically shy away from it, believing it to be an aggressive plant that will take over their garden in a heartbeat. But bamboo is very much misunderstood.
Tucked away off West Saanich Road, Victoria Bamboo is a thriving nursery that has grown bamboo since 2012 while educating customers about the benefits and appeal of this amazing plant.
“The main concern from customers is that bamboo is an invasive plant. But there are many varieties. Some are fast spreading, some slow spreading, and some are clumping,” shares manager Emily Vaughan. “Don’t be afraid of it or dismiss it; you can safely have a beautiful plant in your garden.”
One of only two bamboo nurseries in Canada, Victoria Bamboo offers 30 bamboo species and cultivars.
“We have around 30 types of bamboo here from two-foot-high ground cover all the way to species that grow 50 feet high,” states owner Steve Vaughan.
While there is a huge diversity of species, basically, bamboo falls into two categories: running bamboo and clumping bamboo. The difference between the two is based on the growth behaviour of the rhizomes of the bamboo. These are the plant’s tiny stem-like extensions you’ll find running underground which sprout roots and new shoots.
“Running bamboo has horizontal rhizomes, which are modified canes, that send down roots and shoots. This type of bamboo can move quite far,” says Steve. “With clumping bamboo, the rhizomes grow straight down then turn around again, staying closer to the mother plant.”
The common perception is that bamboo will grow uncontrollably no matter what. However, bamboo is actually considered to be a grass, and as such, it still requires water and humidity during the summer months to really thrive. Without this, it will not grow, and in the case of some species, it will die.
“You can tweak bamboo. You inhibit or stop growth when you stop watering and feeding it,” comments Steve. “You can grow it to a reasonable size, then put it on a diet by slowing the watering and feeding.”
Another control solution is a bamboo barrier.
“You can install a barrier of high density plastic sheeting that is about two feet wide and goes down 22 inches underground,” notes Emily.
Choosing which type of bamboo for your landscaping requirements is critical. You need to know the purpose for growing it on your property. Are you looking for privacy from neighbours? Do you want to create a new hedge? Do you simply want a plant to decorate a particular garden spot? The right bamboo can satisfy your objectives; the wrong one can lead to frustration.
“We are happy to help people learn about bamboo. It is a mysterious plant; you have got to plan for it,” states Steve. “It’s so important to first ask two questions. How tall do you want it to grow? Is spreading a good thing or a bad thing?”
Bamboo has varying growth rates. For example, koi spreads slowly and can grow to 10 feet high. Vivax, on the other hand, is a fast-growing timber bamboo which can reach 50 feet high. As well, each species of bamboo flourishes in different conditions. Some tolerate the shade, while others thrive in full sun.
This knowledge about light conditions and growth activity, as well as how to nurture and control bamboo has, for Steve, been on ongoing process of accumulating information and self-education since he opened the business in 2012. This is just the latest chapter in a lifetime of learning. Prior to that, he was heavily involved in horticulture.
“I studied landscape horticulture at the Nova Scotia Horticulture College,” he shares. “I spent 40 years working as a gardener or arborist in private or government positions, and I ran a tree service in Vancouver for 10 years.”
His daughter Emily, who manages the bamboo nursery, has been involved in all aspects of the business and will soon be starting horticultural studies at college.
They bring this learning to the business not only to support clients but to educate them too.
“We take the time to inform people,” remarks Steve. “We like to spend time educating people about this specialty product.”
Victoria Bamboo offers valuable expertise on how and where to plant bamboo and maintenance suggestions, as well as providing a complete lineup of supportive products such as fertilizers, planters, and potting mix.
The daily approach to business is based on an ongoing enthusiasm about bamboo.
“I’ve been doing this for a long time. I never tire of bamboo,” shares Steve.
“Bamboo is beautiful and impressive,” says Emily, adding: “It’s rewarding to grow it.”
Aesthetically pleasing and ideal for privacy screening, bamboo definitely has its appeal. With the knowledge and support from Victoria Bamboo, that reputation of bamboo being invasive and out of control can quickly be dispelled.
