Bamboo Landscaping in Massachusetts

last year

Hi. I am considering purchasing a property off of the Massachusetts coast. There is a large area of the yard where the owner used bamboo. The owner I am told was in bad health the past few years and passed away. I know nothing about bamboo and am concerned I am walking into a disaster. It looks like it is confined and not taking over the yard. It is definitely overgrown and reaches the roofline of the two story house. See attached photos.

We would be fine with keeping it and having it cut back and landscaped (whatever that may mean for bamboo). I am thinking the local landscapers wouldn't have much knowledge about bamboo hence the reason for my post. If I do purchase the property I will need to bring in a landscaper to deal with it but wanted to get opinions from people who might be familiar with bamboo, thoughts about its use for yard landscaping and your thoughts as to whether I am going to have big problems if I buy this property. Thanks.

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Comments (4)

gardengal48 (PNW Z8/9)
last year
First you need to determine if it is a clumping bamboo - one that stays put and just slowly expands like many ornamental grasses - or if it is a running bamboo species with a behavior bent on world domination. If the former, maintenance is relatively easy and requires minimal attention. If the latter, then I'd give it some serious consideration and do some research on how to remove and the costs involved, which are not insignificant. Unless I was completely convinced that it has been fully contained from spread by a bamboo barrier or other root deterrent, I would not allow it to remain in place.

Bamboos are not unique in the northeast so you shouldn't have too much difficulty in finding a landscaper that is familiar with both types. Or ask at a local nursery that carries hardy bamboo.
tf6217 thanked gardengal48 (PNW Z8/9)
K Laurence
last year
Agree with gardengal48, you need to research what it is & what it would cost to remove ( I assume it would cost ALOT $ ).
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laceyvail 6A, WV
last year
Certainly doesn't look like it's a clumping bamboo.
tf6217 thanked laceyvail 6A, WV
Kat M
last year
Father-in-law let bamboo run rampant. Contractor had to bulldoze almost 3 feet down to get it all. Very expensive.
tf6217 thanked Kat M