Q&A for How to Grow Bamboo from Seed

Bamboo grows extremely quickly! From planting the seed, it will take about 1 to 3 weeks for the bamboo sprout to reach the surface.

From a seed, it will take about 1-3 weeks for the bamboo sprout to reach the surface.

The bamboo plant reproduces by spreading seeds or rhizomes in the soil, just like many other plants.

It can be. A container-grown bamboo can sell for around $30, and in as little as a quarter acre, you can fit 2,400 plants.

Yes, you can. Put the bamboo cutting in water until roots start to form, then transplant it into soil.

Yes, this method of germination also works. Use as little water as possible to avoid fungus. Keep temps between 70 - 80 degrees.

Because bamboo is a monocotyledon, the first leaf is most likely the cotyledon which isn't an actual leaf. It should eventually die off once the real leaves start photosynthesis. As long as the rest of the plant looks good, I wouldn't worry about the first leaf (cotyledon) dying off.

It depends where it's running or clumping. Running bamboo (unless controlled by a barrier) will continue to take over an entire area. Clumping bamboo will generally grow in a clump and only needs 3 feet or so. Both species need trimmed yearly.

Yes. Try a botanical garden for specific species, instructions, and the right soil.

It is possible to skip the pellet seeding process and go directly to planting your seeds outdoors. The primary issue with this approach is that it doesn't provide as much protection for the seedlings. When they are vulnerable and exposed to outdoor conditions early on, they run a higher risk of dying out.

Tractor Supply has a great assortment, at very reasonable prices. Home improvement stores like Home Depot usually have them as well.

Yes. Soaking loosens the covering sheath around the seed, aiding in germination.

To increase your odds of planting success, it is a good idea to soak the seeds and start the planting process as quickly as possible. If you wait too long, then you run the risk of the seeds drying out.

Yes, but it must be a fresh water tank because bamboo can't grow in salt water.

It depends on the type of bamboo you have purchased, some are slow growers and will remain small, while others are fast growers and will get very large.

No. The roots and sprouts will come through the outer layer when they are ready.

It depends on what part of the country you live in. "Early spring" is when they should be transplanted into soil, so work your way backwards from there to calculate when to soak your seeds.

Yes. Soaking loosens the covering sheath around the seed, aiding in germination.