A Gardeners Forum Forums Gardening Reference Gardening in 2003 Questions about bamboo

I recently planted bamboo in very large pots outdoors. I knew about bamboo being so invasive, so I was concerned about unplugging the hole in the bottom of the pots. After considering what to do, I left the holes plugged. After the recent heavy rains we have been experiencing, some of the pots are filled to the top with water and now I have had second thoughts about leaving the holes plugged.

My question is, should I unplug the holes and repot the bamboo by putting some sort of filter fabric in the bottom, then adding rock and maybe another layer of filter fabric on top of the rock, then the dirt or is the bamboo OK as is?

I am not sure of the variety of bamboo that I purchased but I am assuming it is very similar to the variety that grows wild in this area. Looks similar at any rate.

Thanks for your help!

It really depends on the type of bamboo you have. Many bamboos will thrive in water logged situations, I grow it in my pond. The best idea would be to find out what specific variety you have and research it specifically according to water requirements.

I would think that with the bamboo being in pots, it should be contained enough and you could unplug the holes. If runners start finding their way out the holes, cut them off.