The Bamboo Invasion and How to Protect Your Property

Bamboo has long been celebrated for its beauty and versatility, from its association with ancient legends to its status as a favourite garden plant. However, for some homeowners, bamboo is turning into a nightmare, as its invasive nature begins to cause serious problems. If your neighbour’s bamboo is creeping into your garden, you’re not alone in facing this challenge. Here’s what you need to know – and how you can take action.

The Appeal of Bamboo

With its lush greenery and fast-growing nature, bamboo has become a go-to for those looking to create natural screens, add an exotic touch to their landscape, or enjoy a low-maintenance plant. Its aesthetic appeal is undeniable, offering a peaceful, swaying backdrop and privacy without the need for traditional fencing.

However, while bamboo can seem like the perfect garden addition, it comes with a dark side. Once established, bamboo spreads vigorously, often becoming unmanageable. Its underground rhizome system can send shoots far beyond the initial planting area, and when left unchecked, it can breach fences, patios, and even exploit and damage existing weaknesses in buildings.

The Growing Issue: Bamboo Encroachment

More and more homeowners are reporting invasive bamboo encroachment from their neighbour’s gardens. Bamboo’s notorious rhizomes can snake their way under boundary fences and patios, making their way into neighbouring properties with little resistance. Once this invasive plant takes root, it’s difficult—sometimes nearly impossible—to eradicate.

One homeowner we spoke with at the Contamination & Land Remediation EXPO shared their frustrating experience of having to dig up their entire patio to remove the bamboo roots. But just weeks later, fresh shoots appeared, breaking through the ground once again while their neighbour showed no interest in resolving the matter, allowing the bamboo to grow out of control. This story isn’t unique, and it’s why bamboo is earning a reputation as a “garden terror.”

Tell-tale Signs of Bamboo Encroachment

Bamboo can spread quietly and quickly, so it’s important to know the early warning signs of encroachment:

• Shoots appearing near fences or patios: Bamboo shoots are typically cylindrical, hollow, and can range in colour from green to a more woody hue as they mature.
• Rapid spread of thick stalks: Once bamboo takes root, its shoots can grow several feet within a matter of weeks.
• Cracks or disturbances in your patio or driveway: While bamboo doesn’t directly destroy foundations, it can exploit cracks or existing weaknesses in structures by pushing through and exacerbating the damage.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent further spread and damage. If in doubt, use a free identification service to get expert advice.

How to Deal with Bamboo Encroachment

If you find yourself dealing with unwanted invasive bamboo from a neighbour’s property, there are several approaches you can take:

1. Have a Diplomatic Conversation

The first step should always be a friendly, constructive discussion with your neighbour. They may not even be aware that their bamboo is spreading into your garden. Suggest working together to prevent further encroachment. Cooperation could lead to a shared solution, such as installing a physical barrier or agreeing to remove the invasive species altogether.

2. Have a Root Barrier Installed

If you’re unable to get your neighbour on board or need immediate action, having a root barrier installed by professionals is an effective way to stop the spread of bamboo. A root barrier is a thick, impermeable material that is buried around the bamboo, cutting off the rhizomes and preventing them from spreading further. It’s important to have this installed by specialists to ensure it’s done properly and will provide long-term protection.

3. Consult a Bamboo Removal Specialist

For persistent issues or large-scale infestations, it’s best to bring in a bamboo removal specialist. These experts can assess the situation and offer tailored solutions, including advising on and installing the most effective root barriers to stop bamboo in its tracks. They know how to effectively deal with invasive bamboo, removing it at the source through precise excavation, using herbicide treatment to control it and providing long-term solutions to prevent regrowth.

4. Explore Legal Options

In the unfortunate event that your neighbour is unwilling to take action or the encroachment becomes severe, you may need to consider legal options. Bamboo, much like Japanese knotweed, can be categorized as a nuisance plant. In some cases, local laws allow for legal recourse when plants from one property invade another. Before escalating the situation, it’s wise to seek advice from a legal professional with experience in property disputes.

Why Bamboo Removal Matters

Ignoring bamboo encroachment can lead to costly damage. While bamboo typically doesn’t cause direct harm to foundations, it can easily exploit and worsen existing weaknesses in buildings, patios, and pathways. Early intervention is crucial to saving time, money, and hassle down the road. Removing bamboo sooner rather than later also helps to protect the surrounding environment, as invasive species like bamboo can harm local ecosystems by crowding out native plants.

Taking Action

Bamboo may have a peaceful and exotic reputation, but when left unchecked, it can become a relentless invader, taking over gardens and even damaging property. By addressing the issue early – whether through diplomacy, root barriers installed by professionals, or professional bamboo removal – you can safeguard your property and peace of mind.

For more information on bamboo removal, or to consult with a specialist, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to provide expert advice and help homeowners take back control of their gardens.