How to Grow a Bamboo Hedge

Remove all the weeds and rocks from the planting area. Loosen the soil to the depth of 12 to 18 inches with a shovel. Pick a site with good-draining soil, since standing water will drown bamboo roots. Break up dirt clumps and rake the surface smooth.

Dig holes with a hand trowel as deep and wide as the bamboo clump root ball. Space the holes 4 to 6 feet apart. Remove the bamboo plants from their containers and place in the holes. Fill the holes with soil and gently press around the plants. If a thicker hedge is desired, then plant the bamboo clumps in alternating rows.

Water the soil around the bamboo plants. Bamboo hedges need plenty of water so keep the soil moist. Water every five to seven days when there is a shortage of rainfall.

Spread a 1-inch layer of well-rotted compost around the plants four to six times a year. This supplies the hedge with a source of slow-release nutrients. If compost is not available, use the recommended amount of 18-6-18 slow-release fertilizer. Scratch into the top inch of the soil.

Mulch around the bamboo plants with organic material 3 inches deep. This reduces weed growth and saves soil moisture. Use dead leaves or dry grass clippings which will decompose into rich soil. Add more mulch in the fall to keep the level at 3 inches deep.