Bamboo hedges
Compared to gardeners, I think it is generally agreed that others understand very little about anything of consequence.
The main difference between a bamboo hedge and screen is the finished look. Hedges usually have a more formal look and are shorter than screens. You can develop a low hedge by selecting a variety that has the rated height of your finished hedge or by trimming a taller variety to the desired height.
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Bamboo for hedges should be selected based on the end results required. Determine the height, density, leaf size or color and control method (barrier, mowing etc.) for your location and select bamboos that will meet your requirements.
Bamboo can usually be trimmed to the desired height and width with hand pruners or by snapping. We say usually because if you don't trim at the proper time, you will need loppers or a hand saw. The proper time is just when the bamboo culm is starting to put out side branches. If the hedge is kept trimmed to a height that is over your head just pull each culm over and snap or cut. Snap or cut just above the first node below your finished height. Trim the side branches once they have leafed out; simply cut back to the desired width. Trimming bamboo for a hedge will cause the bamboo to have a much heavier leafing habit than untrimmed bamboo. To snap a culm to height, hold the culm supporting it just below a node then snap by pulling the upper portion away from the branching side. Snapping the culm is the preferred method as it will give a very smooth clean top.
A trimmed bamboo hedge requires only one trimming per year. Once the culms are topped they never grow any taller.
The bamboos listed on the left are a few that make good hedges with very good results. Trimmed or not you can find a bamboo to give you the desired look.
