stop running bamboo - Ask Extension
My neighbor has running bamboo in his yard that is close to spreading into my yard. He kind of likes it and doesn't understand my fear. What can I...
Knowledgebase
stop running bamboo #134313
Asked June 14, 2013, 2:20 PM EDT
My neighbor has running bamboo in his yard that is close to spreading into my yard. He kind of likes it and doesn't understand my fear. What can I do to protect myself? Is it against codes for him to have it? Can I force him to do something? I live in Kansas City, MO. Thanks.
Jackson County Missouri
Expert Response
Your best bet is to attempt to contain your neighbor's bamboo by excluding it from your property. Containment of creeping types of bamboo is possible, because the rhizomes are typically fairly shallow (less than one foot deep in the soil), but difficult because they can grow over the top of barriers. Barriers made of concrete, metal, plastic, or pressure-treated wood should be installed about 18 inches deep. A barrier does not stop rhizomes, only deflects them. Therefore, the barrier should be installed with the top slanted outward and projecting an inch or two above ground level so that when the rhizomes hit the barrier they will turn upwards and can be easily seen. Inspect the barrier once or twice a year and remove any rhizomes that are visible.