Overview

White bamboo gets its name because its new shoots are covered in powder that looks white. Varieties include Bambusa chungii, Otatea glauca and Dendrocalamus minor. White bamboo grows up to 30 feet tall and takes on a column-like shape. It can be used as a stand-alone plant, privacy fence or accent plant.

Step 1

Choose a planting location that gets at least five hours of sunlight daily. A windscreen helps protect white bamboo when it is first planted, so pick a spot that gets some sort of relief from high winds, such as near the side of a building or along a fence.

Step 2

Check your soil quality. White bamboos prefer soil that is moderately acidic and loamy. If you have heavy clay dirt, add compost or mulch to improve drainage and lighten up the composition.

Step 3

Dig a hole that is twice as wide and the same depth as the bamboo's root mass. Remove the plant from its nursery container and place it in the middle of the hole.

Step 4

Cover the roots with removed soil. Tamp it down lightly as you fill the hole to get rid of air pockets.

Step 5

Water the plant thoroughly. If you're planting more white bamboo, space the plants out every 3 to 5 feet to create a hedge-like effect. Planting bamboo too close together results in shorter plants.

Step 6

Layer 2 inches of mulch around the base of the white bamboo plants. This will provide nutrients and help retain soil moisture.