I have read that summer is not the ideal time to be transplanting black bamboo but we are moving and want to take "shiloh" with us who is currently planted in the backyard. We want to transplant "her" to a big pot so that we may take it with us. What is the best way to do this w/out causing too much shock or harm and what type of potting soil should we use? Also, do we need to line the bottom of the pot with any kind of rock for drainage? thanks for your suggestions! Dawn
Timing is terrible but you are unlikely to kill it. If plant is of any size will need a heavy spade or similar instrument to cut through the sod-like roots and pop the plant out. Some bamboo enthusiasts actually fabricate their own special tools for this. If there are any woody runners extending out from the main central clump these will also have to be cut through. Be sure to all the way around through all the roots before prying up, otherwise you may crack the rootball. As with other shrubs it may be necessary to excavate a trench around the plant and cut across horizontally beneath it (before prying on it) as well as vertically around it, in order to get it to come loose with an adequate solid ball. Water heavily some days before transplanting and dig around to make sure soil is damp to required depth and plant has gotten a good drink before having its roots cut. Select a container that seems like it might be too big before digging the plant, as with choosing a home greenhouse often pots that seem the right size turn out to be too small after you get started. Expect to be putting pot on side and sliding plant into it, standing it up unless plant is small enough to pick up and set in container. Likewise sliding it sideways into a wheelbarrow, pulling that upright or dragging it with a heavy tarp may be needed if the plant is at all big. Store in a shaded position. Any potted soil labeled for trees and shrubs will do. Water enough to keep moist but be careful not to overdo it as the plant will be in natural soil rather than potting soil, for the most part - this can easily be made too wet within a container unless quite sandy. Cut top back before lifting to facilitate handling if needed.
Thank you so much for this info! I'm so glad I found this site! We would be very sad if we had to leave our bamboo as it was sort of spendy little plant and we cant be ensured that the new homeowners would appreciate or care for it like we do. Must appreciation for such a fast response also. Again, thank you Ron B! Dawn
