I. More Cons than Pros
Many homeowners look to create a private oasis in their backyards which typically requires some landscaping and planting. Over the years many homeowners in New Jersey have turned to creating that luxurious landscape with Bamboo plants and hedges as it grows year-round and can reach extraordinary heights while providing a dramatic visual interest. Unfortunately, not many homeowners are aware that it is considered one of the worlds most invasive plant species with its natural ability to quickly spread. Once established, bamboo is one of the most tenacious plants in the world and is next to impossible to control requiring professional help to remove. Given the right conditions, it can grow 12 inches per day with incredibly deep root system that can reach up to 20 feet deep into the ground, making it difficult to remove. Many municipalities in New Jersey have issued ordinances to prevent the planting of bamboo and can impose daily fines of up to $1000 for any new planting or spread of existing bamboo.
II. Methods of removal
Bamboo removal is not an easy process nor a process for the faint of heart. While many homeowners are tempted to try several DIY removal methods, they rarely result in working. The proper bamboo removal process involves more than the cutting of bamboo stalks to the ground but also the removal of the hidden, underground root system. Bamboo roots (rhizomes), which grow three times faster than those of any other plant, can be as deep as 20 feet below ground. They can then break through concrete and brick foundations, making them a serious threat to houses and buildings.
The only effective way to permanently remove bamboo is to eliminate the entire plant and root system assuring that there is not a single stalk or root left on your property. Professional bamboo remediation companies will not only cut through the rhizomes with tools like shovels and spades but will often bring in professional equipment like backhoes or excavators to effectively remove all traces of the plant.
III. Controlling bamboo in the future
In the past, it has been seen as a sustainable and renewable resource because of its fast growth rate. However, when bamboo becomes invasive, it poses a serious threat to the environment.
This has spurred scientists and researchers to look for ways to limit the spread of bamboo. One way they are doing this is by setting up barriers of high-density polyethylene rhizome barriers, hdpe for short.
In residential areas, municipalities are urging homeowners to refrain from planting the species and to remove any plants from their property. If bamboo removal is not possible then to control the spread by installing rhizome barriers to control contamination of yards and surrounding vegetation.
IV. Preventative Measures:
Homeowners in New Jersey are urged to take care when planning out their personal landscaping projects and not to use invasive plant species like bamboo. While this measure can be controlled by the individual homeowner, it is next to impossible to control the actions of your neighbors. If you live in a location that has bamboo growth you should first contact the professionals to see what options are available to you. Taking the preventative measures before the bamboo has an opportunity to cross onto your property can save you a significant amount of time and money then dealing with the complicated removal process in the future.
If there is an infestation at your commercial or residential property, call us so that we can help you with combating it before it gets out of hand.